When it comes to the most famous bridges in Paris, Pont des Arts is undeniably the most well-known. This bridge, which would otherwise be plain with its chainlink fence and minimal detail, has been adorned by thousands of locks, each placed there with a purpose. While it's prohibited to add locks to this day due to the structural integrity of the bridge, it's still quite a unique architectural sight to see in person.

While the bridge was commissioned in 1802, it has had quite a history since then. Today, it's one of the most recognizable landmarks in Paris with the exception of the Eiffel Tower. Here's why it's worth visiting, even if one isn't permitted to add their own lock to the iconic bridge.

Related: It's a Ten Minute Walk From Pont Des Arts To The Eiffel Tower In Paris: Here's What You Can See On The Way

The Incredible History Behind Pont Des Arts

In regard to the age of Paris, the beloved love lock bridge is somewhat new compared to the overall history of the city. It was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon I and made history as the first bridge to be made of entirely metal in the city. Originally, the bridge maintained a design with nine arched details in total, with the alleged intent of being the first step toward modernization, according to TripSavvy. The bridge itself was designed with the additional purpose of bringing a bit of garden life to Paris in the form of the greenery and flora that adorned it. During the early 19th century, this was as modern a design as could be. In order to appreciate its beauty, however, visitors were charged a fee in order to cross.

Before it was known as the love lock bridge, Pont des Arts had somewhat of a tortured history. The once beautiful bridge suffered significant damage during both World Wars, which eventually led it to be closed to the public. During the 1970s, it was shut down by engineers who were concerned about its structural integrity, and it remained closed for years following. It wasn't until 1984 when the bridge was reopened that it underwent major repairs, leaving the bridge with only seven arches rather than the original nine. This reconstruction led to a renaissance of sorts for those visiting and is now home to various art shows while also becoming a haven for photographers.

Visiting Pont Des Arts

The bridge itself is still worth visiting today, and visitors should be reassured that it's just as romantic, even without being able to add their own locks to the bridge. For those planning to see it while in Paris, here are some things to take advantage of.

Time It Right For The Perfect View

Of course, the bridge was such an alluring landmark because of its romantic history. Before the bridge was compromised, many would visit, leaving locks carved with the initials of themselves and their loved ones on the fence. As an eternal romantic gesture, visitors would then throw the keys to the padlocks into the water below, thus signifying and everlasting love.

Just the idea behind this is enough to make a hopeless romantic swoon, and visiting the bridge will have still very much have the same effect. While the padlocks that remain are covered with a piece of protective glass paneling, it's worth going to experience the love stories left behind by others. If nothing else, a bridge that's completely covered in various padlocks is quite a sight to behold. The best time to visit is at sunset, especially during the summer.

Bring Lunch And Enjoy The Landscape

One of the most popular things to do on the bridge is to have a picnic. Thanks to the numerous benches that line the bridge itself, this is an easy thing to do -  and visitors will have the best of Parisian food at their fingertips!

Whether it's in the form of sandwiches from a local café or charcuterie and cheese from the local market, it's bound to be full of sweet moments surrounded by some of the most scenic views in Paris.

Enjoy The Surrounding Culture

Those visiting the bridge might be surprised at how close it is to some of the most beloved locations in Paris. The Louvre, for one, is only a short walk from the bridge and one could easily spend an entire day there. Between the museum and Tuileries Gardens (right next door), it's worth spending a little time here on a sunny day.

On the left bank of the river, visitors can find the Musée d'Orsay, which is home to famed impressionist works by Monet, Renoir, Pissarro, and other notable artists. In between, visitors probably won't be able to help stopping in at a number of bakeries and cafés, especially for a croissant and a hot coffee.

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