Trump administration unveils plans for colossal triumphal arch in Washington

US President Donald Trump stands near models for a proposed "Independence Arch" as he speaks during a dinner with ballroom donors in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC. (File/AFP)

Donald Trump's administration on Friday unveiled renderings for a large triumphal arch proposed for construction in Washington near several of the nation's most prominent monuments.

The structure is planned to stand 250 feet (76.2 metres) tall, surpassing Monument to the Revolution by 30 feet and making it the largest of its kind globally, ahead of Arch of Triumph.

Design and location details

The gold-accented arch would rise higher than the 99-foot-tall Lincoln Memorial and is proposed to be located across the Potomac River at the far end of Arlington Memorial Bridge.

It would also be visible from Arlington National Cemetery, where many of the country's military personnel are buried.

Renderings show a large winged Lady Liberty, flanked by two gilded eagles, positioned atop a white arch. The structure features gold inscriptions reading "One Nation Under God" and "Liberty and Justice for All" on opposite sides.

The proposed design resembles the Arc de Triomphe and would be situated on Columbia Island in the Potomac River.

Trump highlights project significance

"The structure "will be the GREATEST and MOST BEAUTIFUL Triumphal Arch, anywhere in the World," Trump wrote on his social media platform on Friday. "This will be a wonderful addition to the Washington D.C. area for all Americans to enjoy for many decades to come!"

Trump has said the arch would commemorate the 250th anniversary of the US founding and the 1776 declaration of independence from Britain.

Part of broader architectural plans

The project is among several initiatives undertaken during Trump's second term, including a large White House ballroom and renovations to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The plans have been submitted to the US Commission of Fine Arts for review, an agency responsible for advising the President on design matters.

Trump replaced all members of the commission in October and appointed allies as part of broader development plans across the US capital.

Last month, the same body approved the design of a commemorative gold coin bearing Trump's likeness to be minted for the 250th anniversary.