Porte de Paris

This triumphal arch was erected on the ramparts (now extinct) from 1685 to 1692, to celebrate the capture of the city by Louis XIV in 1667. It replaces the former holder of the Sick, which was part already in the enclosure since the Middle Ages. Simon Vollant, architect of the Citadel alongside Vauban, develops a carved decoration that express the power and magnificence of the Sun King. At the top, a Victory, sitting in the middle of trophies and flags, lays a wreath of laurel on the head of Louis XIV carved in a medallion. Right in a niche, Hercules with his club symbolizes strength. At left is Mars, the god of war.