Ever wondered why a street is named after a monument it can no longer see? That’s the riddle of Rue de l’Arc de Triomphe. Today we stand on a street with a fascinating history tied to one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks the Arc de Triomphe.
This small street in the 17th arrondissement has a story that stretches back centuries. The Rue de l’Arc de Triomphe owes its name to the magnificent Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile. It stands a mere 200 meters to the south. But you cannot see it from here anymore.
Originally, this street was one of eight radiating alleys. These alleys formed the “star of Chaillot” the ancestor of today’s Place Charles de Gaulle Étoile. Picture this it was designed as early as 1724. It was under the supervision of the Duke of Antin. Back then this alley was in the countryside and likely unnamed. Yet it was one of the oldest paths in the area.
By the late 18th century the alley had fallen into disuse. But in 1827 architect M. Brey reopened it as a street. At the time this area was part of the commune of Neuilly before being annexed by Paris. By 1846 the street stretched from Place de l’Arc-de-Triomphe-de-l’Étoile to Rue des Acacias.
However the street’s path was altered for aesthetic reasons. It was to ensure the symmetry of the Haussmannian star with its twelve branches. In 1854 the section between Place de l’Étoile and Rue de Tilsitt was removed. This happened when Avenue du Prince-Jérôme now Avenue Mac-Mahon was created. Later in 1867 another section disappeared. It was between Rue de Tilsitt and Rue de Montenotte. This was due to the extension of Avenue Mac-Mahon. A new transverse street was constructed that became Rue du Général-Lanrezac.
The Arc de Triomphe itself was commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon Bonaparte after his victory at Austerlitz. Laying the foundations took two years. The construction wasn’t completed until 30 years later. Jean-François Chalgrin was inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus. Napoleon never saw it finished. But his body passed beneath it on its way to its final resting place.
The Arc de Triomphe stands as a central point for twelve avenues. It represents Parisian history culture and influence. The Arc honours those who fought and died for France. Their names are inscribed on its surfaces. Beneath its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.
The Arc de Triomphe has witnessed many historic events. These include victory marches and military parades. In 1919 Charles Godefroy flew his biplane under the arch. This feat was captured on newsreel. After the interment of the Unknown Soldier military parades avoid marching through the arch. This shows respect for the tomb.
The Arc’s design is neoclassical inspired by ancient Rome. Sculptures adorn the monument. They include “The Triumph of 1810” and “La Marseillaise”. The latter is a representation of French liberty. Names of French victories and generals are inscribed on the inner walls.
Beneath the Arc lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. An eternal flame burns in memory of the unidentified dead. Each year on November 11 a ceremony is held to remember the fallen.
So next time you find yourself on Rue de l’Arc de Triomphe remember its story. It’s a tale of lost views altered paths and a deep connection to Paris’s heart. The Arc de Triomphe and the streets around it continue to inspire.