The Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe: Hitlers Orders and the Reality of WWII Paris

During the tumultuous years of World War II, Paris faced an existential threat from the Nazi forces. Many accounts mention Hitler's alleged orders to destroy iconic landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. However, these claims have been long disputed and are often part of a narrative designed to evoke strong emotions rather than convey actual historical events.

Hitler's Orders in Paris

One of the most significant and controversial orders issued during the Nazi occupation of Paris was an order to Dietrich von Choltitz on August 23, 1944. This order instructed that 'Paris must not fall into enemy hands except as a field of ruins.' Von Choltitz, who commanded the German occupation forces in Paris, was deeply conflicted about this directive. According to historians, he believed there was no military validity in such an order and was perturbed by the sheer hatred it contained. He even relayed this order to fellow officer Lieutenant General Hans Speidel, a friend from their pre-war days in the German military and the Russian front.

Von Choltitz told Speidel, 'The Eiffel Tower and the Madeleine are taken together. And the Arc de Triomphe. I'll detonate it so its metal structure will lie in front of the destroyed bridges.'

Speidel, recognizing the absurdity and potentially disastrous nature of the order, responded with pitchfork humor, "Oh General, we are thankful you are in Paris." This exchange highlights the bizarre and inhumane nature of the order, which ultimately did not get carried out.

The Reality of Paris in 1940 and 1944

The so-called 'scrap Paris' narrative is often a misinterpretation of historical events. While Paris did experience significant damage during the war, especially in the latter stages, it was largely spared the complete destruction that Hitler ordered for other major cities like Warsaw. The reason for this difference lies in the fact that the French had declared Paris an open city after the Germans invaded in 1940. This act prevented the devastating complete destruction that had happened to other European capitals, such as Warsaw.

When the Allies approached Paris in 1944, Hitler recognized the historical and symbolic importance of the city and the Eiffel Tower. Therefore, despite the initial order, there was no intention to destroy these landmarks on the ground. Instead, as evidenced by subsequent events, the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe were preserved, while about the railway car that Germany had capitulated in 1918 was the primary target of destruction.

Aftermath and Legacy

Following the end of the war, the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower stand as testaments to the city's resilience and the preservation of its cultural and historical heritage. Von Choltitz's actions in refusing to comply with the directives to destroy these landmarks have been celebrated as a symbol of his humanity and the broader bravery of the French civilians who resisted the Nazi occupation.

Conclusion

The story of Hitler's supposed orders to destroy the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe is a fascinating and historic paradox. While it is a dramatic and compelling narrative, it also serves as a reminder of the intensity of the World War II. It is important for us to dig deep into historical records and primary sources to distinguish myths from reality, ensuring that we understand the truth about this contentious period in history.

The Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, as a testament to the battles of the past, continue to be symbols of Parisian fortitude and modernity. As we reflect on the past, we must remember both the atrocities and the heroes who fought to preserve our shared heritage.