Paris, France | The Arc de Triomphe is the ultimate Napoleon flex move Рan epitome of Bonaparte's sheer arrogance and hubris, erecting a 50-meter-tall arch to commemorate his victory at the 1806 Battle of Austerlitz. It was designed to resemble the triumphal arches created by the Ancient Romans to honor their military conquests, with sculptures and reliefs of his wins. But then comes the major twist: its transformation from being a symbol of imperial vanity into a tribute to all of France (and not just one man with a Napoleon complex), Ils ont brav̩ la mort pour la patrie.
Location-wise, the Arc de Triomphe is undeniably the popular kid at school, standing at the crossroads of twelve avenues, including the famous champs-elysees. Or, more aptly, the social butterfly of Parisian landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower's older, more serious sister.
Yet, "there is nothing like a dream to create the future". Perhaps this monument will inspire future generations to dream of peace and unity, rather than military conquests and individual glory. Only time will tell.
