The Names Carved on the Pillars

Before you climb up to the terrace, take a closer look at the inner surfaces of the Arc's pillars. Step beneath the arch and walk slowly around them, and you will see countless names neatly carved all over the stone.

The Arc was built to honor the generals and soldiers who fought on the battlefield. Here you will find the names of 660 commanders and 158 battles, large and small, a way of making sure those who fought for their country, and the battles themselves, are never forgotten. Look closely and you will notice that some names are underlined: these mark those who died in combat.