Arc de Triomphe - Paris France

The Arc de Triomphe is Paris France is one of the most well known landmarks in Paris. If you find yourself in Paris then you must go visit this site. The history behind the site is something that not many visitors know, for instance it was ordered to be built by Napolean in 1806, but construction was stopped between 1814 and 1826. The Arc de Triomphe was not completed until 1836 long after Naploean died, in 1821. The design of the structure itself is amazing, the names of 128 battles of the first French Republic as well as Napolean's Empire are written on the walls that are under the vault as well as the names of the generals that took part in each battle.
To me the thing that really touched me the most when visiting this site is that of the unknown soldier that is buried at the Arc de Triomphe. At the base you will see a torch every night this torth is rekindled, the torch stands as a reminder of the sacrifice that an unknown soldier gave in World War I.
 

The Arc de Triomphe is not an easy place to get to. The thing that you should make sure that you remember is that the traffic is not worth braving. The traffic in this area is awful and can be dangerous especially if you are not familiar with the area. When I went we ended up having to cross the street to get there, and let's just say I feel lucky to have made it safely. You can look at the monument from ground level and see the flame and the details, underneath it. Or you can climb to the top and look out at a view of Paris. The key to remember is that its a great idea to travel all the way to the top to see the view but you have to remember that the only way to get to the top is to climb about 40 stairs and then enjoy the view. This can be a great place for you to visit with kids if you don't want to have to put up with the crowds that are at many other places, but the climb to the top could be difficult for younger children.

 

The hours are

April 1 to September 30: 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

October 1 to March 31: 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m.