Audio GuidePont Alexandre III
Ornate, late 19th-century arched bridge in a Beaux Arts style & named after a Russian czar.
Pont Alexandre III in Paris is among the city's most splendid bridges. Constructed in the late nineteenth century, it serves as a symbol of friendship between France and Russia. The bridge was officially opened for the Paris Exposition Universelle in the year nineteen hundred, with its foundation stone laid by Nicholas the Second to honour Tsar Alexander the Third. This act commemorated the significant Franco-Russian alliance of that period.
The bridge is renowned for its exquisite Beaux-Arts design, enriched with sumptuous Art Nouveau details. Visitors can admire elegant lamps, intricately carved cherubs, nymphs, and even winged horses. Statues pay tribute to the arts, sciences, commerce, and industry of France, while delicate reliefs showcase the crests of Paris and Imperial Russia, encapsulating the cultural essence of the era.
Designed by Jean Résal and Amédée d'Alby, the bridge is distinguished by a sweeping single steel arch, which not only supports the structure but also enhances its visual appeal. Today, Pont Alexandre III is a popular setting for film scenes, music videos, and modern events, including recent Olympic celebrations. It connects significant landmarks like Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower and can easily be accessed via the Invalides metro station.
This landmark offers visitors an unforgettable experience, combining art, history, and remarkable engineering in the timeless splendour of Paris.