The Paris City Hall has ordered the permanent removal of the so-called love locks from the 37 railings of the Pont des Arts bridge over the Seine, following the threat posed to the bridge’s structure by the tons of iron from these mementos.
Authorities wanted to put an end to this tradition which, according to a statement, causes lasting degradation of heritage and constitutes a risk to visitors.
As such, starting June 1st, authorities will begin removing the locks, after which the bridge will be temporarily covered by a unique artistic intervention created by international artists. In October, the railings will be replaced with plastic panels.
Source: Daily Business
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the love locks being removed from Pont des Arts?
The locks are being removed because the weight of several tons of metal compromises the bridge’s structural integrity and visitor safety.
When does the removal operation begin?
The process of dismantling the 37 metal railings filled with locks begins on June 1st.
What will happen to the bridge after the locks are removed?
The bridge will temporarily host an art exhibition, and in October, the railings will be permanently replaced with transparent panels.