Trump unveils the design of the largest monument of its kind in the world
The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled the designs for what is intended to be the largest monument of its kind in the world, which he plans to build in Washington, near some of the capital’s most significant architectural landmarks.
Trump intends to construct a giant triumphal arch standing 76.2 meters tall, surpassing the Monument to the Revolution in Mexico City by 9 meters, making it the largest structure of this type in the world and pushing the Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang into third place.
The gold-adorned arch will also exceed the height of the Lincoln Memorial, which stands about 30 meters tall across the Potomac River, and will be clearly visible from the Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where many American soldiers who died in battle are buried.
On Friday, Trump wrote on his social media account: “This monument will be the greatest and most beautiful triumphal arch in the world,” adding that it “will be a remarkable addition to the Washington area, for all Americans to enjoy for many decades to come.”
This arch is one of several architectural projects launched by Trump during his second term, including plans to build a massive reception hall at the White House and to renovate the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The designs also show a gilded statue of a winged Lady Liberty surrounded by two eagles atop the arch.
Engraved on both sides of the arch, which resembles the Arc de Triomphe, are the phrases “One nation under God” and “Liberty and justice for all.”
Trump, who was among the most prominent real estate developers in the United States before entering politics, stated that the project will be built to mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and its declaration of independence from Britain in 1776.
The project plan has been submitted for review to the United States Commission of Fine Arts, a federal agency tasked with advising the president on design matters.
In October, Trump dismissed all members of the commission and appointed loyalists as part of launching numerous renovation and construction projects in the U.S. capital.
Last month, the same commission approved the design of a commemorative gold coin bearing Trump’s image, which will also be minted for the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
