The origin of the triumphal arch can be traced back to Ancient Rome, where these monuments were erected to immortalize the name of those soldiers who, with their war victories, ensured power and glory in turn.
In its simplest structure, it consists of two columns with a square or rectangular base, joined by an arch that supports a structure adorned with statues or commemorative inscriptions.
Custom dictated that it be built on the main streets of the city, so that the winner would pass under its vault and be symbolically ‘crowned’ with eternal victory.
At present, the oldest is located in Rome and is the Arch of Emperor Titus, erected in the year 80 AD. C. to commemorate his victories in Judea.
The tallest Arc de Triomphe in the world
The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, today probably the most famous in the world; It was also considered, for approximately one hundred years, -from 1836, when its construction was completed- as the highest on the planet, with its 50 meters high.
However, 102 years later, in 1938, it would be superseded by the Monument to the Revolution, which stands 67 meters high.
It should be noted that originally the Monument to the Revolution would be part of a Federal Legislative Palace; However, its construction remained in its foundations with the outbreak of the revolution and years would pass until the architect Carlos Obregón Santacilia rescued it from ruin, rethinking it as it is today.
It is said that there is an arch higher than the Mexican one; the Arc de Triomphe of Pyongyang, in the capital of North Korea, and which would have a height of 70 meters. However, there is no way to check.
More about the Monument to the Revolution
- In addition to being a monument, it is also a mausoleum that houses the remains of Francisco I. Madero, Plutarco Elías Calles, Pancho Villa and General Lázaro Cárdenas.
- In 2010 it was renovated and an elevator was added that goes up the central axis of the monument, up to an observation platform inside the dome, which boasts one of the most special viewpoints in the city.
- It also houses the National Museum of the Revolution, a cafe called Adelita, and a store.
Haven’t you visited them yet? Buy your tickets online, here.