The triumphal arch, invented by the Romans, is one of the most influential and distinctive architecture associated with ancient Romes. It was built to commemorate victorious or significant public events, such as setting up new colonies, construction of roads or bridges, death of the imperial family or accession of a new emperor.
The triumphal arch, a monumental structure in the shape, is with one or more arched passageways, which designed to stride across a road. It is connected with two massive piers, crowned with a flat entablature or attic. On the statue lies some commemorative inscriptions. The main building is decorated with sculpted reliefs, dedications, as well as carvings.
The ornamentation of the triumphal arch was served as a constant visual reminder of the triumph and victories. It concentrated on the factual imagery rather than allegory. The piers and internal passageways were embellished with reliefs and free-standing sculptures. And the vault was ornamented with coffers.
It is the largest triumphal arch in Europe, with a height of 50 meters and a width of 45 meters. The stonework of the temple-gate carved war history of Napoleon in1792-1815. On the right of the arch is the Marseillaise carved by Luther. Every year in July 14ththe French National Day, here will hold grand activities, attracting tens of thousands of tourists coming to visit. The tomb of an unknown soldier buried a French soldier in the first World War.
The 12 streets are focused on the Triumphal Arch, showing great momentum to the surrounding radiation. On both sides of the triumphal arch are 4 large-scale sculptures on the subject of wars, such as battle, victory, peace and resistance. Some figure sculptures are as high as five or six meters. Around the Triumphal Arch are doors, engraved with Napoleons 386 generals and 96 battle names. It is the pride of Paris, one of the four representatives of architecture, and a historic site protected by French government.