Paris-9/24/2015 - 10-5/2015
Pont D'Alexandre III
Construction of the bridge started in May 1897, the first stone was laid by Russian Tsar Nicolas II in October 1896. The bridge which was to symbolize Russian-French friendship was named after his father, Tsar Alexander III.
Here we are walking toward the Pont D'alexandre III
The Pont Alexandre III is a bridge that spans the Seine and connects the Champs-Élysées quarter with those of the Invalides and Eiffel Tower. One of the requirements for the bridge was that it should not obstruct the view on the Invalides and Champs-Elysées. This resulted in a very low 40 meters (132 ft) wide bridge with a single 107.5 meters (353 ft) long span and a height of only 6 meters (20 ft).
The bridge is widely regarded as the most ornate, extravagant bridge in the city. It is classified as a Historic French Monument.
The construction of the bridge is a marvel of 19th century engineering, consisting of a 6 meters (20 ft) high single span steel arch. The design, by the architects Joseph Cassien-Bernard and Gaston Cousin. The bridge was built at the end of the nineteenth century as part of a series of projects undertaken for the Universal Exposition of 1900. The exposition took place on either side of the Seine river and the new bridge would enable the millions of visitors to more easily cross the river.
The "Nymphs of the Neva" are at the center of the arches over the Seine, memorials to the Franco-Russian Alliance. Executed in hammered copper over forms by Georges Récipon.
|
Lamppost and sculptures of cherubs and nymphs |
Statue above the bridge depicting Pegasus being led by Fame
|
View of the Invalided from the bridge.
Here we are underneath the Pont D'Alexandre on the left bank of the rive Seine.
In the summer people will lay around and sun bath.
Lots of coffee shops lined up the streets.
Very romantic area with a view of the river Seine.
NEXT..Dinner at Afaria
