Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe, where the eternal flame honors fallen heroes of World War I and beyond.

Brief History: Added in 1921 after World War I, this tomb honors unidentified soldiers who died in battle. Notable Features: A simple granite slab beneath the arch with an inscription: “Here rests a French soldier who died for the Fatherland 1914–1918.” An eternal flame burns above it, rekindled daily. Fun Fact: It was the first eternal flame in Western Europe since antiquity and inspired similar memorials worldwide. Current Use: Tourists gather at 6:30 PM for the daily flame rekindling ceremony, an emotional highlight of Arc de Triomphe tourism. Silence and respect are expected here.