Bonjour! This week’s carte postale features a watercolor rendering of the Pont Alexandre III in Paris.

During my first visit to Paris in the summer of 1995, I recall taking a break at a food stand located near the base of the Eiffel Tower. I ordered a saucisson-beurre baguette and an Orangina.

As I ate, I examined the handful of Paris postcards I had just bought from nearby vendors. The food stand owner noticed and asked me where I was from. “California,” I told him.

With raised eyebrows, he pointed to a Los Angeles postcard that was taped near the cash register. I shook my head and said, “I’m closer to San Francisco.” He then gave me his business card and asked me if I could send him a postcard from San Francisco.

A man after my own heart! As a fellow collector of postcards, I was naturally happy to oblige.

Shortly after New Year’s, I was pleasantly surprised to receive this beautiful postcard from him featuring the Pont Alexandre III and the Eiffel Tower. It was so thoughtful!

Pont Alexandre III

  • The bridge was built for the World Fair that was held in Paris in 1900
  • It was named after the Russian Tsar, Alexander III by the French government to celebrate Russian-French alliance
  • It connects Les Invalides on the Left Bank of the Seine River to the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais on the Right Bank
  • With its cherubs, winged horses, lamps, and pillars topped with gilded sculptures, the Pont Alexandre III is considered one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris

For more information:

Paris Tourist Info – Pont Alexandre III

Until the next Wednesday Postcard, à bientôt!