It’s a lock. A padlock. You used them on your high school locker. On your suitcase. And perhaps for some other more naughty task. Typically, saving the key is an integral part of the successful use of your padlock. But a trend is sweeping the world – love padlocks – padlocks which are affixed in a location, the key tossed, to remain in perpetuity as a sign of a couple’s unending love. Some couples write their names or initials on the locks, or adorn them with special loving messages.
Even to those uninterested in sappy romance, there is hardly anything more romantic than showing your partner how much you love him/her by gifting a padlock, heading to one of the world’s most romantic locations, and affixing a lock which will bear inclement weather, wind, rain, snow, heat and hard times, and still be unable to be unlocked by anyone but the special couple. The lock will remain there, a symbol of endurance, perseverance and, obviously, love.
Love padlocks can be found in various locations around the world. In fact, Wikipedia has created a list of locations with love padlocks, spanning the globe from China to the Czech Republic.
Love padlocks in Spain. Photo credit.
Love padlocks in South Korea. Photo credit.
Love padlocks in Germany. Photo credit.
Love padlocks in France. Photo credit.
While incredibly romantic, some cities have expressed concern over love padlocks weighing structures down. Some have even started installing metal trees and other structures designed specifically to harness the padlocks that lovestruck tourists leave behind.
Love padlock trees in South Korea. Photo credit.
A recent trend began on New York’s own Brooklyn Bridge. However, the New York Daily News reported that the New York City Department of Transportation periodically inspects the bridge and removes the locks “as necessary.” Nevertheless, affixing a lock which can never be unlocked and which has to be physically cut off in order to be removed, remains a symbol of a couple’s undying devotion to one another.
Love padlock on the Brooklyn Bridge. Photo credit.
Love padlocks on the Brooklyn Bridge. Photo credit.
Happy Valentine’s Day from New York City!
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I first noticed this trend in Paris a few years ago, and loved the romance behind it! Hope you had a fabulous Valentine’s Day! <3
Jess @UsedYorkCity recently posted..New Yorker Moments
You too! xx
City Gal recently posted..Happy Valentine’s Day from New York City!
Am I the only one wondering where all the keys go?
Li recently posted..Top Five Myths About Pole Dancing in New York
I think they get dropped into the surrounding water!
City Gal recently posted..Happy Valentine’s Day from New York City!
Never seen them on “trees” before – I think it’s nice when cities create places for these locks
Andrea recently posted..Arrival On the Antarctic Mainland