Trump’s Grand Washington Triumphal Arch: Golden-Winged Figure, Eagles, Lions & ‘One Nation Under God’/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Donald Trump unveiled plans for a massive triumphal arch in Washington. The design features gilded eagles, lions, and a winged statue. The monument would stand taller than the Lincoln Memorial.
Trump Washington Arch Plan Quick Looks
- Trump proposes 250-foot triumphal arch
- Golden winged statue crowns monument
- Eagles and lions included in design
- “One Nation Under God” inscription planned
- Monument located near Lincoln Memorial
- Would be taller than Lincoln Memorial
- Part of broader White House redesign plans
- Trump calls it “greatest arch anywhere”
Deep Look: Trump’s Grand Washington Triumphal Arch: Golden-Winged Figure, Eagles, Lions & ‘One Nation Under God’
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump unveiled ambitious plans for a massive triumphal arch in the nation’s capital, featuring gilded statues, patriotic inscriptions, and a towering winged figure intended to become one of Washington’s most prominent landmarks.
According to a 12-page proposal released by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, the monument would stand approximately 250 feet tall from its base to the top of a golden winged figure holding a torch. The design includes a statue resembling Lady Liberty, flanked by two gilded eagles and guarded by four lions positioned around the structure.
The arch would also feature gold inscriptions reading “One Nation Under God” and “Liberty and Justice for All,” placed prominently across the monument’s upper sections.
Location and Size
The proposed arch would be positioned between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, within a traffic circle connecting Washington, D.C., to northern Virginia. The structure would significantly alter the skyline in the area.
At 250 feet tall, the arch would tower above the Lincoln Memorial, which stands at 99 feet. The scale of the project underscores Trump’s vision for creating one of the most prominent monuments in the nation’s capital.
Trump praised the proposal on social media, calling it “the GREATEST and MOST BEAUTIFUL Triumphal Arch, anywhere in the World.” He added that the monument would become a lasting landmark for Americans and visitors.
Historical Inspiration
Trump has argued that Washington, D.C., has long considered building a triumphal arch. According to the president, the idea dates back roughly 200 years but was interrupted by the Civil War and later abandoned in the early 20th century.
“It was interrupted by a thing called the Civil War,” Trump said previously. “Then they almost built something in 1902, but it never happened.”
Trump has also pointed out that many global capitals feature triumphal arches, including Paris and Rome, and suggested Washington lacks a comparable structure.
Part of Broader Redesign
The triumphal arch is part of several architectural changes Trump has pursued during his second term. The president has already announced plans for a large ballroom addition at the White House and made design changes to the Oval Office.
Additionally, Trump converted portions of the White House Rose Garden into a stone-covered patio, another move reflecting his broader interest in reshaping the physical landscape of Washington.
The proposed arch would extend beyond White House grounds, representing a more ambitious effort to reshape the city itself.
Lasting Monument Vision
Trump has previously spoken about improving Washington’s appearance, including replacing aging landscaping, signage, and infrastructure. The triumphal arch would represent the most visible example of those efforts.
If approved and constructed, the monument would join Washington’s long list of historic landmarks and potentially become one of the most recognizable features in the capital.
The proposal is expected to spark debate over design, cost, and placement, particularly given the arch’s size and proximity to historic sites.
“This will be a wonderful addition to the Washington D.C. area for all Americans to enjoy for many decades to come,” Trump wrote.
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