A peculiar ritual came to an end last month in Paris. For years, couples would attach padlocks to the Pont des Arts and other bridges over the Seine as symbols of their lasting love. Tradition had it that the keys were thrown in the river. As with many rituals, things got out of hand. The weight of the locks bent the wire mesh on the bridges to the point that sections began to fall into the river. So the city decided to remove the wire mesh on the bridges and replace it with plexiglass. Julian took these photos when we were in Paris in May, just before the lock removal took place.
Lock-encrusted bridge in Paris, with Notre Dame in the background.
Close up of padlocks. So how did Romeo and Juliet get to Paris?
Locks on the lock, Canal St. Martin in northeast Paris.
Fear not, young lovers. Seattle appears to have a place for you to declare your love with a padlock. Our friend Gayle noticed these padlocks on a fence overlooking the mouth of the Duwamish River. Since the Duwamish was once one of the most polluted rivers in the northwest, your keys could disintegrate in the sediment. How’s that for permanence?
Locks of love along the Duwamish. Hey, it’s a start. Photo courtesy of Gayle Goldman.
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