![The Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile (Triumphal Arch of the Star) is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. It stands in the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle (originally named Place de l'Étoile), at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. It should not be confused with a smaller arch, the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, which stands west of the Louvre. The Arc de Triomphe honours those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and the Napoleonic Wars, with the names of all French victories and generals inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. Beneath its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I. The Arc de Triomphe is the linchpin of the Axe historique (historic axis) – a sequence of monuments and grand thoroughfares on a route which runs from the courtyard of the Louvre to the Grande Arche de la Défense. The monument was designed by Jean Chalgrin in 1806 and its iconographic program pits heroically nude French youths against bearded Germanic warriors in chain mail. It set the tone for public monuments with triumphant patriotic messages. The monument stands 50 metres in height, 45 m wide and 22 m deep. Its design was inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus. The Arc de Triomphe is built on such a large scale that, three weeks after the Paris victory parade in 1919 (marking the end of hostilities in World War I), Charles Godefroy flew his Nieuport biplane through it, with the event captured on newsreel. It was the tallest triumphal arch in existence until the completion of the Monumento a la Revolución in Mexico City in 1938, which is 67 metres high. The Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang, completed in 1982, is modelled on the Arc de Triomphe and is slightly taller at 60 m [Wikipedia.org]](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6187899/ce730aaa-6e04-4cb2-ae2d-4e846d97c027.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=500&q=medium)
Discover top 17th Arrondissement attractions
The 17th Arrondissement of Paris, known for its blend of residential charm and vibrant culture, offers a delightful array of experiences for discerning travellers. Start your exploration at the Parc Monceau, a picturesque park that features manicured lawns, beautiful statues, and a quaint pond, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. Just a stone’s throw away, the Rue de Lévis is a bustling market street where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local delicacies, making it an ideal spot for food lovers looking to immerse themselves in Parisian life. For art enthusiasts, the Palais des Congrès hosts various exhibitions and performances, providing a glimpse into the city's dynamic cultural scene. Families can enjoy a visit to the Cité des Fleurs, a hidden gem lined with charming, flower-filled gardens, offering a serene escape from the city's bustle. Lastly, don’t miss the chance to explore the stunning architecture of the Batignolles district, where quaint bistros and boutique shops await around every corner. Staying in the 17th Arrondissement means you can indulge in top hotels that cater to your expectations; many hotels here feature spacious family rooms, exceptional service, and convenient access to the metro, enabling you to easily explore the rest of Paris while returning to a peaceful retreat at the end of the day. The combination of local charm and modern comforts makes this neighbourhood a wonderful base for your Parisian adventure.
