Pont des Arts

I get the draw of the novel concept of attaching «love locks» to the railings of the bridge, however this is not the only bridge in Paris where this can be done. There is nary a space left where one can attach a lock, they cover almost every square inch of the railings.
We crossed the bridge on several occasions and if not for the locks, it’s pretty non-​descript.

Behold the first of my long awaited Paris reviews! Yay!
Pont des Arts is a footbridge by the Louvre, and from what I’m told, was the first metal bridge across the Seine. Unfortunately, it was damaged in both WW1 and WW2 and had to be replaced by the current bridge.
The bridge itself is a beautiful place to visit, with people picnicking on it, and artists painting. You are surrounded by beautiful architecture on both sides, and lovely boats to-​ing and fro-​ing. Tis a must visit if only for a stroll along it’s length.
Of course the main attraction to this bridge for tourists are the love-​locks. Many tourists simply know Pont des Arts as the Love Bridge. In what is considered to be possibly the most romantic city on earth, it is no surprise that many couples wish to leave their own lock behind. And although I was with my best friend instead of my boyfriend, I couldn’t resist leaving one behind. You write your names on the lock, attach it to the bridge and throw the key into the water below, which is supposed to represent that nothing can tear you apart.
On the approach to the bridge, you will notice some enterprising characters selling locks and markers. If you plan on doing it and don’t want to pay over the odds, get one from your local pound shop or dollar store and personalise it beforehand. Some even go as far as to have one specially made.
I did learn afterwards that the weight of the keys is in fact causing the bridge to sink. Almost every inch of the railings are covered in padlocks and you can imagine the sheer weight of all that unexpected metal pushing on the foundations. I may have felt a bit guilty contributing to it, and the locals have mixed feelings about it too. The local authorities appreciate that it is an attraction and the sentiments are appreciated, but naturally they are also concerned with protecting the bridge.
Whether you visit with a lock or not, please take a stroll down the Seine and visit this beautiful spot.