The Pont des Arts is for Lovers

The Pont des Arts, a foot bridge that crosses the Seine between the Quai de Conti on the Left Bank and the Quai de Mitterand on the Right, is unquestionably romantic.  But when did the tradition start of couples placing a lock on the railing and then throwing the key into the river?  All I can say is that the city of Paris, which has no use for these mementos, is fighting a losing battle to keep the locks at bay.  City workers keep cutting them off but the locks just keep on coming.

There's quite an assortment, in every shape, size, color, and even a few combination locks which, to my mind, kind of defeats the poetry of the idea.  Whatever.  It's still sweet.

For puppy love,



 special anniversaries,



in every shape, color, and size

Some people obviously come prepared. 

From near and far

And even a little humor.

And if you're wondering whether there's a lock on that bridge for myself and my husband, the answer is no.  Neither of us goes in for grand romantic gestures.  Although honestly, what could be more romantic than getting to spend four years together in Paris?  Plus, that's something the city of Paris can never take away from us.