Ornate gilded bridge over the Seine
This bridge spans the Seine between the Invalides and the Grand Palais, connecting the Left Bank to the Right in a single steel arch decorated with more gilt, sculpture, and Belle Époque excess than any bridge reasonably needs.
Built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, the bridge is outrageously ornate. Art Nouveau lamps line both sides, each one wrought iron and frosted glass. Nymphs, cherubs, lions, and garlands cover every available surface. It's theatrical, unapologetic, as well a practical thoroughfare.
The views justify walking across slowly. Upstream, the Eiffel Tower rises above the trees. Downstream, Notre-Dame's towers mark the Île de la Cité. The Invalides dome glows gold to the south.
Photographers gather here at sunrise and sunset when light turns the Seine pink and the gilt blazes. Wedding parties pose most weekends. Film crews use it regularly – Midnight in Paris and countless fashion shoots have featured those lamps and that arch.
View Île-de-France
