Arc de Triomphe Architectural Wire Sculpture Doodles Destinations Series

This miniature architectural model is worthy of display on the most impressive desk, cabinet, sideboard, or mantel. It is quite sturdy and solid, not flexible at all. It is part of a series of "Doodles Destinations" architectural models. The Arc de Triomphe is a monument in Paris, France that stands in the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle, also known as the "Place de l'Étoile". It was commissioned in 1806 after the victory at Austerlitz by Emperor Napoleon at the peak of his fortunes. The monument was designed by Jean Chalgrin. The triumphal arch honors those who fought for France, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. On the inside and the top of the arc there are all of the names of generals, and wars fought. Underneath is the tomb of the unknown soldier from World War I. The Arc stands 49.5 m (162 ft) in height, 45 m (150 ft) wide and 22 m (72 ft) deep. The large vault in the front is 29.19 m (95.8 ft) high and 14.62 m (48.0 ft) wide. The small vault on the sides is 18.68 m (61.3 ft) high and 8.44 m (27.7 ft) wide. It is the second largest triumphal arch in existence. Its design was inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus. The Arc de Triomphe is so colossal, 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. Pedestrian access to the Arc de Triomphe is via an underpass. The Arc has one lift (elevator), to the level underneath the exterior observation level. Visitors can either climb 284 steps to reach the top of the Arc or take the lift and walk up 46 steps. From the top there is a panoramic view of Paris, of twelve major avenues leading to the Étoile and of the exceptionally busy roundabout in which the Arc stands. (some information adapted from Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia)