Are the Love Locks Still in Paris?

By Anna Duncan

If you’ve ever visited Paris, you may have heard of the tradition of love locks. Couples would attach a padlock to a bridge, fence, or other structure and throw away the key as a symbol of their eternal love.

However, in recent years there has been controversy over the practice and its impact on the city’s infrastructure. So, are love locks still in Paris?

The History of Love Locks in Paris

Love locks first appeared in Paris in the early 2000s and quickly became a popular trend among tourists. The most famous location for love locks was the Pont des Arts bridge, where hundreds of thousands of locks were attached over the years.

However, as more and more tourists added their locks to the bridge, concerns arose about its structural integrity. In 2015, part of the bridge’s railing collapsed under the weight of all the locks.

The Ban on Love Locks

As a result of this incident, authorities began to crack down on love locks throughout Paris. The city council passed a law banning them in 2015 and removed all existing locks from bridges and other structures.

While some tourists still try to attach their own locks in secret locations around the city, it is no longer allowed and comes with fines for those caught doing so.

The Debate Over Love Locks

The ban on love locks has been controversial among both locals and tourists. Some argue that it was an important tradition that brought people to Paris and added to its romantic charm. Others believe that it was an eyesore and caused damage to historic structures.

Regardless of your opinion on love locks, it’s clear that they are no longer officially allowed in Paris. If you’re looking for a way to express your eternal love while visiting the City of Love, there are plenty of other romantic gestures you can make without damaging its infrastructure.

Alternative Romantic Gestures in Paris

  • Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Luxembourg Palace
  • Visit the top of the Eiffel Tower for a breathtaking view of the city
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Paris’s many Michelin-starred restaurants
  • Take a sunset boat ride along the Seine River
  • Visit the famous Love Wall in Montmartre, where you can write your own love message

In Conclusion

Love locks may have been a popular trend in Paris at one point, but they are no longer allowed and have been removed from all structures throughout the city. While some may lament their loss, there are plenty of other ways to express your love and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.