Since 7 October 1896, the date on which the first stone was laid by Tsar Nicolas II, this bridge, 109m in length, has been a symbol of the secular links between France and Russia. Technical features such as its single arch, which facilitates river transport, did not stand in the way of rich decoration, which includes candelabra, scrollwork and two gilded figures of Pegasus symbolising War (Left Bank) and Peace (Right Bank). The view of Les Invalides from the bridge is particularly impressive.