The bridge was built in 1913. Construction is timed to the 300th anniversary of the Romanov dynasty of the Russian tsars, as indicated by a bronze wreath with the dates 1613-1913, installed on the bridge. The bridge is dedicated to Emperor Alexander I, who restored the work of the University of Tartu, interrupted during the Northern War. From the street Vallikraavi bridge decorates the bas-relief of the Russian emperor.