Donald Trump’s Plans for a Gigantic Arc de Triomphe Revealed

The administration of President Donald Trump unveiled design renderings on April 10, 2026, for a proposed 250-foot structure known as the Triumphal Arch to be located in Washington, D.C. The designs were submitted to the Commission on Fine Arts for consideration.

The proposed monument is intended to be situated across the Potomac River from the National Mall, specifically in Memorial Circle, a traffic roundabout located near Arlington National Cemetery. The structure would be positioned on the opposite side of the Arlington Memorial Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial, which is less than half the height of the proposed arch.

Design and Architectural Features

The architectural renderings for the project were created by Harrison Design. The Triumphal Arch is inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France, a monument originally built to honor those who fought during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars.

The design features several patriotic and golden symbols. The top of the arch will be adorned with a gold winged angel, which President Trump identified as Lady Liberty. Flanking the base of the statue are four golden lions. The structure will feature two golden eagles, each measuring 24 feet in height.

The arch will include golden inscriptions on its sides. One side will read One Nation Under God and the other will read Liberty and Justice for All.

Project Timeline and Purpose

President Trump first announced the idea for the arch in October 2025, stating at the time that he wanted the structure to be substantial and the biggest of all.

On January 23, 2026, the president shared three different renderings of the arch via a post on Truth Social, with each version featuring slightly different characteristics. The administration has pitched the completion of the project to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States in July 2026.

Administrative and Political Context

The proposal has drawn attention due to the president’s comments regarding the purpose of the monument. When asked by CBS News who the arch would honor, President Trump responded, me.

The design is now under review by the Commission on Fine Arts, a federal design panel. President Trump has appointed multiple members to this commission after firing six members who had been appointed by former President Joe Biden.

The Triumphal Arch project is part of a broader effort by the administration to redesign elements of the capital. In March 2026, the U.S. Treasury Department announced that President Trump’s signature will appear on all future U.S. Paper currency, marking the first time a sitting president has received such a gesture.