Centred on the Place Charles-de-Gaulle-Etoile, at the focal point of the major axis linking the Tuileries Gardens to La Défense, the Arc de Triomphe symbolizes the history of France and embodies the city of Paris throughout the world. This most monumental of all triumphal arches was constructed between 1806 and 1836 on plans attributed to Chalgrin. Its decoration belongs to the high tradition of sculpture of the first half of the 19th century. Groups, figures, friezes and bas-reliefs are signature works by Corot, Etex and Pradier, and include Rude’s “La Marseillaise”. Since the transfer of Napoleon’s ashes in 1840, the Arc de Triomphe has become the celebrated site for major national events. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Memorial Flame keep alive its patriotic role.