Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the incredibly elaborate structure took 30 years to finish and remains the world’s second largest triumphal arch. It’s an architectural icon in Paris and the landmark site of several large-scale events each year such as the Bastille Day parade and celebration and the final leg/finish line of the Tour de France cycling race.

Each of the four base pillars feature relief scenes of four war victories while names of major battles during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods and of 558 generals are listed around the top and inside walls. Visitors can access the site at the center of the craziest roundabout via an underground tunnel then enjoy a small museum and stunning views from atop the 164-foot high roof viewing platform. It’s a fantastic place to watch the sunset over the city and enjoy the twinkling lights on the Eiffel Tower in the evenings.

Size: 5x7
Materials: watercolor + pen on watercolor paper