The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is an iconic monument in Paris, located between the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens. It is often less well-known than its big brother, the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, but it occupies an important place in the history and urban planning of the capital.
Characteristics of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel:
Construction: The arch was commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806 to celebrate his military victories, particularly the campaign of 1805. It was completed in 1808. It is designed in a neoclassical style, reminiscent of Roman triumphal arches, and is part of the tradition of commemorative monuments.
Dimensions: The arch is smaller and thinner than the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, measuring approximately 19 meters high, 23 meters wide and 7.3 meters deep. Its elegant proportions contrast with the monumentality of the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile.
Decorations: The arch is richly decorated with reliefs and sculptures celebrating Napoleonic victories. It is adorned with pink marble columns and sculptures representing the French armies. The reliefs tell important episodes of Napoleon's military campaigns, such as the Battle of Austerlitz.
Quadriga: At the top of the arch is a quadriga, that is, a chariot pulled by four horses. Originally, the quadriga was topped by the horses of Saint Mark, which Napoleon had brought back from Venice as a trophy. However, these horses were returned in 1815, and a new sculpture representing Peace, drawn by horses, was installed in 1828.
Location: The arch is located on the historic axis of Paris, also called the "Voie Triomphale", which extends from the Louvre to the Grande Arche de la Défense. It marks the entrance to the Cour Napoléon of the Louvre and faces the Tuileries Gardens. It is also perfectly aligned with the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile.
Original function: The name "Carrousel" refers to a large equestrian festival, organized by Louis XIV in 1662, which took place at this location. Napoleon chose this location for the arch in homage to this historical event, as well as to his own military triumphs.