Highlight • Monument
Carrousel Triumphal Arch
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The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is a magnificent Neoclassical triumphal arch located in the heart of Paris, France, standing at an elevation of 34 meters. Situated prominently in the Place du Carrousel, this historical monument serves as a grand gateway between the iconic Louvre Museum and the beautiful Tuileries Gardens. It marks the eastern end of Paris's famous "Axe Historique," a linear route that extends westward through the city, making it a pivotal landmark in the 1st arrondissement.
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Paris, rives de la Seine
Tips
July 7, 2020
Hiking
The quadriga on the arch goes back to a reproduction of the four golden horses of San Marco in Venice. Napoleon had the originals brought to Paris in 1797 after the victorious Italian campaign, together with the Lion of San Marco as the symbol of the Republic of Venice, which he had crushed.
January 27, 2022
Hiking
•December 25, 2018
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Carrousel Triumphal Arch
4.6
(14)
390
hikers
11.7km
03:03
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(37)
371
hikers
14.5km
03:47
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
99
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 30 m
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Saturday 14 March
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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best public transportation options to reach the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel?
The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is very well connected by public transport. You can reach it via several metro lines. The closest stations are Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7) and Tuileries (Line 1). Many bus routes also serve the area, making it convenient for all visitors.
Are there any parking options available near the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel?
While the immediate vicinity of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is pedestrian-friendly, several underground parking garages are available nearby. The most convenient options include the Parking Carrousel du Louvre and Parking Saint-Honoré. Keep in mind that parking in central Paris can be expensive, and spaces fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons.
How does the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel compare to the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile?
Many visitors confuse the two, but they are distinct monuments. The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is significantly smaller, measuring 19 meters high, compared to the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, which is about twice its size at 50 meters high. The Carrousel arch was built earlier (1806-1808) to commemorate Napoleon's victories, while the Étoile arch was commissioned the same year but completed much later (1836) and serves as a grander tribute. The Carrousel arch is located between the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens, forming the eastern end of the Axe Historique, while the Étoile arch stands at the western end of the Champs-Élysées.
What are some family-friendly activities or nearby attractions for children?
The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is situated between the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens, offering plenty for families. After admiring the arch, children can enjoy the open spaces, playgrounds, and pony rides within the Tuileries Gardens. The Louvre Museum itself has family-friendly tours and activities, and the nearby Musée des Arts Décoratifs often features engaging exhibitions for younger audiences. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll and a picnic.
Is the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel accessible for visitors with disabilities or those with baby strollers?
Yes, the area around the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is generally very accessible. The monument itself is at ground level within the Place du Carrousel, which is a large, flat, paved area. This makes it easy to navigate for wheelchair users and those pushing baby strollers. The surrounding Tuileries Gardens also have wide, paved paths. Public transportation options like the metro often have accessible entrances, though it's always good to check specific station accessibility beforehand.
What are the best times of day to visit to avoid crowds and get good photos?
To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting early in the morning, shortly after sunrise, or later in the evening as the sun begins to set. These times also offer beautiful lighting for photography, especially for capturing the arch with the Louvre or the Axe Historique in the background. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, particularly during off-peak tourist seasons.
Are there any cafes or restaurants with views of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel?
While there aren't many direct 'view' restaurants immediately adjacent to the arch, you'll find numerous cafes and eateries within the Carrousel du Louvre shopping center, located underground. For more traditional Parisian cafes and restaurants, explore the streets surrounding the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens, particularly towards the Rue de Rivoli or Palais Royal area. Many offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy the Parisian atmosphere after your visit.
What is the historical significance of the quadriga (horse statue) on top of the arch?
The bronze quadriga atop the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is a significant feature. The original horses were the famous gilded bronze horses from St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, which Napoleon brought to Paris in 1797 after his Italian campaign. After Napoleon's downfall in 1815, the original horses were returned to Venice. The current quadriga, sculpted by Baron François Joseph Bosio in 1828, is a reproduction featuring an allegorical figure of Peace in a chariot, flanked by gilded Victories. It symbolizes Napoleon's military triumphs and the subsequent peace.
What other historical sites are located very close to the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel?
The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is at the heart of Paris's historical axis. Immediately adjacent are the iconic Louvre Museum and the beautiful Tuileries Gardens. Looking west through the arch, you can see the Obelisk in the Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, and the larger Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile in the distance. The Palais Royal and its gardens are also a short walk away, offering a rich concentration of history and culture.
How long should I allocate for a visit to the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel?
The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel itself can be admired in a relatively short amount of time, typically 15-30 minutes, to appreciate its architecture, bas-reliefs, and the views along the Axe Historique. However, given its prime location between the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens, most visitors spend much longer exploring the surrounding area. If you plan to combine it with a visit to the Louvre or a stroll through the gardens, allocate several hours or even a full day.
Is the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel dog-friendly?
While dogs are generally not permitted inside the Louvre Museum, they are often allowed in the outdoor public spaces around the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel and within the Tuileries Gardens, provided they are kept on a leash. However, it's always advisable to check local regulations or signage, especially for specific areas within the gardens, as rules can vary.