Audio guide

Arc de Triomphe

A Monument to National Glory and Remembrance

Arc de Triomphe

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Welcome to the Heart of Paris

1m 15s

Arc de Triomphe • Section 1 of 5

Welcome to the Arc de Triomphe, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. You are standing at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, formerly known as the Place de l’Étoile, or Star Square. This name comes from the twelve grand avenues that radiate outward like a celestial star, creating the most famous traffic intersection on the planet. Look up at the massive structure before you. Standing approximately 50 meters tall and 45 meters wide, this neoclassical giant is nearly double the size of the ancient Roman arches that inspired it. As you begin your visit, feel the weight of history in this open-air forum. This space serves as both a gateway to the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées and a solemn sanctuary for the French nation. Take a moment to orient yourself to the scale of the stones and the energy of the city pulsing around this iconic pivot point.

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Inside this guide

01Welcome to the Heart of ParisWelcome to the Heart of Paris: Welcome to the Arc de Triomphe, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. You are standing at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, formerly known as the Place de l’Étoile, or Star Square.
02Napoleon’s Grand VisionNapoleon’s Grand Vision: The story of this arch began in 1806, when Napoleon Bonaparte, fresh from his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, decreed that his soldiers should return home through arches of triumph.
03Etched in Stone: The Art of VictoryEtched in Stone: The Art of Victory: Look closely at the four massive pillars supporting the arch. Each is decorated with a colossal high-relief sculpture representing a pivotal moment in French history.
04Sacred Ground and the Eternal FlameSacred Ground and the Eternal Flame: Directly beneath the center of the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a poignant memorial established in 1921 to honor the unidentified dead of World War One.
05Vistas and Vanishing PointsVistas and Vanishing Points: As you finish your ground-level exploration, consider the journey upward. If you have the energy, 284 steps in a narrow spiral staircase will take you to the rooftop terrace.

Common questions

What does this free Arc de Triomphe audio guide include?

It covers Welcome to the Heart of Paris, Napoleon’s Grand Vision, Etched in Stone: The Art of Victory, and Sacred Ground and the Eternal Flame, with practical context and details to notice during the visit.

What should I notice first at Arc de Triomphe?

Start with Welcome to the Heart of Paris. The guide then connects Napoleon’s Grand Vision, Etched in Stone: The Art of Victory, and Sacred Ground and the Eternal Flame to the place, so you know what to look for on site.

What can I ask Mappu after this Arc de Triomphe guide?

You can continue with follow-up questions such as "How can I access the monument safely without crossing the busy traffic circle?", then keep the guide connected to your map and trip plan.