If you've ever seen movies set in Paris, which is highly likely, then chances are you've seen shots filmed on the Pont de Bir-Hakeim. Inception, for example... It must be said that its central section, under the viaduct, lends itself well to photos and film shoots.
Like other bridges in Paris, such as the Pont de l'Almaand the Pont Alexandre III, the Pont de Bir-Hakeim was built for a World's Fair: that of 1878. At least, the first version of the bridge was: a metal footbridge, the Passerelle de Passy.
In 1902, the footbridge was rebuilt after an architectural competition was organized and won by engineer Louis Biette and architect Jean-Camille Formigé. The idea was to allow pedestrians, cars, and the metro to cross the new bridge. Since the end of the 19th century, the metro had been expanding in Paris, and a viaduct was built on the new bridge to carry metro line 6.
The architect and engineer designed one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris. The Pont de Bir-Hakeim is a two-story structure: one for pedestrians, bicycles, and cars, the other for the metro. Cast iron statues by Gustave Michel (the Nautes and the Forgerons) adorn the stone piers, while four allegories (Science, Work, Electricity, and Commerce) adorn the central masonry arch. The curved columns supporting the metro tracks are inspired byArt Nouveau.
In June 1942, the bridge, then known as the Viaduc de Passy, was renamed Pont de Bir-Hakeimin memory of the victory of the Free French Forces in Libya in 1942.
Note that you can take a stroll onÎle aux Cygnes, along the Seine, from the middle of the bridge, thanks to the stairs leading down to it. Don't forget that the Pont de Bir-Hakeim offers a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower: the perfect place to admire major popular events in Paris, especially the July 14 fireworks display!
