Arc de Triomphe
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Arc de Triomphe emphasizes the avenue des Champs Elysees. Its constructions were dedicated to the glory of his Grande Armee.
So Napoleon I, from diverse plans of every kind (pyramids, a statue of liberty or even a gigantic elephant), selected the more traditional mission by Jean Chalgrin. Work started in 1806 on the hill of Chail-lot, chosen for its immense perspective.
The ceremony of the entrance of Maria Luisa into the capital was in 1810 a life sized canvas simulacrum painted "trompe-l'oeil" style was demonstrated.
A year later Chalgrin died and the construction of the Arc de Triomphe was given to one of his pupils: Goust.
With the arrival of the Allies work was interrupted and was only taken up again under Louis XVIII. The inauguration did not take place until the 29th July 1836.
The Arc de Triomphe has kept the appearance, which we know today. The was arch 50 m high and was enhanced by the spreading of the 8 new avenues, which Haussmann added to the 4 that, already existed. In addition, the 12 hotels planned by Hittorff contribute to the geometry of the square.
The Arc de Triomphe is formed by a large central arch and by a smaller side one, which make it perfectly proportioned. The sculptures, which decorate it are the work of Thiers. To the east, the right side was sculptured by Rude: "le Depart des Volontaires de 1792" (the departure of the Volunteers of 1792), more widely known as "la Marseillaise" (the Marseillaise), a real masterpiece full of energy and impetus.
The other side, sculptured by Cortot, represents "Le Triomphe de Napoleon" (Napoleon's Triumph), the west side was decorated by Etex with conventional groups; "La Paix" (Peace) and "La Resistance" (Resistance).
Above these groups, Pradier occupied the tympanums with representations of Fame by Pradier; at the same height there are scenes representing important events during the Empire: Mar-ceau's funeral, the battles of Aboukir, Alexandria, Arcole, Austerlitz and Jemappes.
Under the trabeation, a frieze 137 m long circles the facade. Six sculptors, paid by the metre, managed to represent "giants" with a height of 2.12 m, in memory of the departure and return of the armies.
Since the 1914-18 war there is a stone under the Arc de Triomphe, which covers the tomb of the Unknown Warrior, a flame which is lighted every evening keeps vigil over it.
At the top of the Arch, visitors can admire an exceptional panorama of the perspective from the Louvre to the Defense and of the "Etoile" (star) formed by 12 avenues.
Avenue Foch, which reaches the Bois de Boulogne, has kept its dignified style and is the widest avenue measuring 120 m across, flanked by tall trees.
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