Love is dead. Or so the City of Love says. Paris’ Pont des Arts bridge, which overlooks the Eiffel Tower, is filled with thousands of initial-covered padlocks left by tourists. These barnacles of everlasting love stand as a menace to Parisian residents, who consider this display an eyesore.
The bridge’s recent burst of popularity extends not only to tourism but into pop culture. Parks and Rec featured the bridge (before a horrific monster stole the Leslie and Ben lock). One can also observe supermodels declaring BFF love for each other during any given fashion week.
Nothing lasts forever. In April, a chunk of the bridge’s fencing fell under the weight of the locks. Faced with newfound safety concerns, the city will take action. Pont des Arts will close on Monday for permanent removal of the locks. Plexiglass panels will replace the bridge’s fencing. The No Love Locks campaign declared victory in a a triumphant Facebook post:
Sorry, tourists, no more vandalizing our city. Finally, Paris is taking a definitive stand against “love locks.” City Hall has announced the Pont des Arts will be closed for one week to remove all locks and replace the plywood panels with artwork from international artists. In October, glass panels will be installed permanently on both the Pont des Arts and the Pont de l’Achevêché. This is a great first step–and a victory for us!
On Monday we will be attending a press conference given by Deputy Mayor Bruno Julliard and will publish a full report on our blog. Spread the word: Paris (finally) says NO LOVE LOCKS!
Perhaps love isn’t actually dead now. It’s simply been freed from the bridge of gauche padlocks.
(via No Love Locks on Facebook & Mashable)