Donald Trump confirmed this Monday that he has ordered the construction of a triumphal arch in Washington, D.C. The monumental structure is slated to be erected opposite the Abraham Lincoln Memorial. Trump also stated that this new arch would surpass its Parisian counterpart “in every way.”
Trump’s Second Term: A Grand Vision for Washington
Is it a touch of grandiosity? During a declaration made from the White House on Sunday, December 14, Donald Trump confirmed he had ordered the construction of a triumphal arch in the American capital, Washington. “I have entrusted Vince (Haley, head of domestic policy, ed.) with the responsibility for the triumphal arch. We are building an arch similar to the Parisian Arc de Triomphe,” the former head of state declared.
Donald Trump specified that the arch would be located near Arlington Bridge, facing the Lincoln Memorial, which was built in honor of the 16th President of the United States just over 100 years ago.
“Washington is the only city in the world of this importance that does not have a triumphal arch,” Donald Trump observed. “The one people know best is in Paris, France. But we are going to surpass it, and by a lot, I believe,” he added. The former President could not resist making some criticisms of France, asserting that his triumphal arch “will be much better” than the one at the top of the Champs-Élysées in Paris. “It surpasses it in everything.”
An Arch with Columns and Eagle Sculptures
Last November, AFP published a dispatch indicating that during a meeting at the White House, its journalists had seen a model of a triumphal arch on Donald Trump’s desk. It was reported that the 3D plan of the structure showed a large white arch topped with statues, placed on a roundabout on the banks of the Potomac River, on the opposite side of the Lincoln Memorial, near Arlington National Cemetery. “Next to the model was another, larger scale model of the Triumphal Arch, allowing for details to be distinguished, particularly columns and eagle sculptures placed on the summit, framing a golden statue with outstretched wings, holding a torch,” the report continued.
Transforming the American Capital
With this new construction, Donald Trump continues his endeavor to transform the American capital and the White House. For example, he has covered the walls of the Oval Office, previously a rather sparse room, with golden ornaments. He is also building a huge ballroom next to the White House. The former Republican leader signed a decree at the end of August to promote “classical” architecture, inspired by ancient Rome and Greece. He has also repeatedly expressed his desire to further celebrate the power and military victories of the United States.
