Arc de Triomphe Visitors' Guide

Ever since the Emperor Napoleon I commissioned its construction in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe has symbolized French state and military power. Bonaparte erected the arch to commemorate his powerful armies (and himself, of course) with all the pomp and circumstance fitting of a gargantuan ego. Nationally-treasured novelist Victor Hugo's funeral was celebrated under the arch.

Later, one of the darker chapters of Paris history opened in 1940 as Adolf Hitler and Nazi troops seized Paris, strategically marching under the Arc de Triomphe and onto the Champs-Elysées to mark the city's occupation. The liberation of Paris by allied troops would be celebrated four years later in the same spot, and each July 14th (Bastille Day), a military and state procession culminates at the world's most-recognized arch.

By now, you've probably gathered why this is a must-see site for a first visit-- and for history buffs, of course.

Read More:

• Arc de Triomphe Visitors' Guide
• More top tourist attractions in Paris

Pictured: The Arc de Triomphe in its evening guise. ©2007 Croquisse. Some rights reserved under the Creative Commons License.