During the official ceremonies surrounding the world wars, you'll have seen images of the rekindling of the flame under theArc de Triomphe. But did you know that you could attend every evening, free of charge? Every day since November 11, 1923, it has been possible to attend the rekindling of the nation's flame at the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and pay your respects to the soldiers who fell in defense of France.
In 1921, just after the First World War, it was decided to place the tomb of an unknown soldier who had died for France under the Arc de Triomphe. But to ensure that this soldier would never truly die in oblivion, in 1923 a flame was placed on his grave, so that this poignant tribute would never fade away. Since then, the rekindling of the flame has been accompanied every evening from 6:30 p.m. by a silent and moving civic ceremony. While everyone can attend the ceremony on the forecourt, certain privileged citizens can have the honor of rekindling the flame themselves.
Originally organized by veterans, this public ceremony is now open to all citizens, provided a request is made by a member association, school or town hall, to keep alive the memory of soldiers' sacrifices for the nation.
Location
Arc De Triomphe
Place Charles-de-Gaulle
75008 Paris 8
Access
Charles de Gaule Etoile metro station
Prices
Free
Official website
www.laflammesouslarcdetriomphe.org
