Alexandre III Bridge

Built between 1896 and 1900 and classified as a historical monument, this arch bridge on the Seine is considered to be the most extravagant bridge in Paris, displaying Art Nouveau lamps, cherubs, nymphs, and winged horses, reflecting the style of the Grand Palais, to which it leads on the right bank.

Surprisingly, it is not dedicated to a French king but to the Russian tsar Alexander III, who concluded the Franco-Russian alliance in 1892, weakening the dominance of the German Empire in Europe.

Built by engineers Amédée d'Alby and Jean Résal, it was opened for the Universal Exhibition in 1900, as were the Grand Palais and Petit Palais. There are four statues of Fames—the Fame of the Sciences, the Fame of the Arts, the Fame of Commerce and the Fame of Industry—all in gilt bronze. The Nymphs of the Seine, with the arms of France, and the Nymphs of the Neva, with the arms of Imperial Russia, stand either side at the center of the arch. The prominent sculpture of the bridge was provided by numerous sculptors, including Emmanuel Frémiet, Gustave Michel, Alfred Lenoir, Georges Gardet, Pierre Granet, and many others.

It's very easy to get there; either travel by Métro line M8 or M13 and get off at Invalides, or take the RER train line C and get off at the same station. After having seen this marvelous bridge, you can continue either to the Champs-Élysées or Les Invalides.

• Alexandre III Bridge at Wikipedia

• More information on Paris' official tourist website