Daydreaming on Avenue Champs de elysees

Europe 4: La plus belle avenue du monde

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July 8th 2008
We got down at the Charles de Gaulle - Etoile station and stepped out to be bowled over yet again by history, the Arc de Triomphe. The 164-foot Arc de Triomphe commissioned by Emperor Napoléon in 1806 evokes sheer military power and triumph. It was built in an age when leaders erected monuments in their own honor, to boost their egos. The arch's beautiful sculptures commemorate Napoléon's genera ... read more

Europe » France » Île-de-France » Paris

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Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader am... ... read more