The Pont de l’Archevêché Bridge in Paris, France is one of two bridges that visitors can place a padlock on the bridge. This sweet tradition is a spectacle that many individuals travel to see and participate in each year.
Before taking a trip to see the locks padlocks in Paris, you should know the meaning behind it.
Tradition:
Love padlocks started appearing on the Pont De L’archeveche in the early 2000’s. No one knows for sure why they starting appearing, but it has become a popular tradition over the past ten years. The tradition is that if you visit Paris with your lover you have to write your name on a lock and attach it to the bridge. You are then supposed to throw the keys in the river, the Seine, which is below the bridge. This is to signify that your love is locked forever. Both Berlin, and Wroclaw have their own love padlocks traditions as well.
For Those Who Break Up:
If an individual does happen to break up with their lover, they are supposed to dive into the river and look for the key. In reality it would be near impossible to find a specific key since there are thousands of keys thrown off of the bridge each year. In fact, there are so many locks that individuals have now start attaching their locks to other people’s locks since there simply is no more space available on the bridge.
A Bridge For Those More Committed:
For individuals who are married or plan to have a more committed relationship, the Pont des Arts Bridge, which is located near the Institut de France, is the place where these individuals are supposed to attach their locks. Unfortunately, some of these locks are cut off from time to time to replace broken parts of the bridge that have been warped due to the sheer weight of the locks. If you are going to place a lock on this bridge, keep in mind that the current mayor of the 6th arrondisement would like to have these locks removed at least once a year to keep them from causing a safety hazard.
Hanging a lock from either bridge is a touching, symbolic gesture that you and your lover, spouse or partner can participate in together to show that your love that will last a lifetime. You can either bring your own lock or can purchase one at a nearby shop. If you do decide to visit Paris to take part in this tradition, we can help you plan this meaningful trip.
The love lock bridges of Paris are among the city’s most romantic traditions. Our advisors’ Paris in the Spring guide covers more of Paris’s romantic experiences worth seeking out.
