The Arch of Triumph by matcrazy1
At the top of the Champs-Elysées is a circle 140m (450 feet) in diameter from which 12 imposing avenues radiate to from a star (étoile). From 1753 to 1970 it was called Place de l'Etoile, then was renamed Place Charles de Gaulle. .
In the center of the circle is the Arch of Triumph, commissioned by Napoleon in 1806. After Napoleons fall it stood unfinished until Louis-Philippe saw to its completion in 1832-36.
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At 50 metres (164 ft), it is twice as high as the Arch of Constantine, which inspired it, and, at 45 metres (148 ft), a little more than twice as wide. Jean Chalgrin was the architect and François Rude sculpted the frieze and the spirited group. La Marseilleise (real title, The departure of 1792).
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On Armistice Day in 1920, the Unknown Soldier was buried under the centre of the arch, and each evening the flame of remembrance is rekindled by a different patriotic group.
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Tourists are allowed to go to the top for a great view of Paris.
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