Triumphal arch for Washington: Trump's ambitions grow
Photo: White House presents Trump arch project (truthsocial.com)
The administration of US President Donald Trump has unveiled a project to build a 76-meter triumphal arch in Washington. The initiative has already been submitted to the Commission of Fine Arts for review, which is expected to assess the proposal next week, according to Trump's post on the Truth Social platform.
"I am pleased to announce that TODAY my Administration officially filed the presentation and plans to the highly respected Commission of Fine Arts for what will be the GREATEST and MOST BEAUTIFUL Triumphal Arch, anywhere in the World," he wrote.
According to the BBC, the structure is called the "Arc de Trump" and, under the design, could exceed the height of both the US Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial.
The visualization features the golden inscription "One Nation Under God", two eagles, and a winged Statue of Liberty, as well as lion sculptures at its base.
The White House said the arch is intended to become an important part of the area near Arlington National Cemetery.
"The arch will enhance the visitor experience at Arlington National Cemetery for veterans, the families of the fallen and all Americans alike, serving as a visual reminder of the noble sacrifices borne by so many American heroes throughout our 250-year history so we can enjoy our freedoms today," White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said.
At the same time, the project’s funding remains unclear. Trump previously said that part of the funding could come from remaining funds allocated for the construction of a ballroom.
Trump has said he was inspired by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. According to his vision, the new structure would welcome those entering Washington from the Arlington Cemetery side via Memorial Bridge.
Other Trump ideas
The arch initiative is part of a broader administration strategy to reshape the symbolic appearance of the capital. Recently, Trump's team has been promoting ideas related to commemorating his name in public spaces.
In particular, Palm Beach airport serving the Mar-a-Lago area has been proposed to be renamed in honor of the president.
There are also plans to issue banknotes with his signature and gold coins featuring Trump to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States — these initiatives have already sparked debates over their legality.
Meanwhile, other construction plans by the administration have faced legal obstacles. Federal Judge Richard Leon ordered a halt to renovation works on the East Wing of the White House, where a new ballroom was planned.
The court ruled that the administration cannot proceed with such a project without Congressional approval and ordered construction to stop until lawmakers reach a decision.