Pont Alexandre III, Paris

Built in 1900 for the Universal Exhibition, the Pont Alexandre III takes its name from the Russian emperor who laid the first stone. It's a magnificent example of art nouveau style decorated with nymphs, cherubs, and other sea monsters. The four golden statues depict Art, Commerce, Industry, and the Sciences. At the time of its construction, the authorities would not allow the ornamentation to obscure the view of the Champs-Élysées or the Invalides - the view is still wonderful! This superb example of 19th-century engineering crosses the Seine between the Invalides and the Grand Palais. It is definitely one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris.