Pont des Arts
Pont des Arts is a beautiful pedestrian bridge in Paris that spans the Seine River and joins the 1st and 6th arrondissements.
Linking the Institut de France and the Louvre
Pont des Arts (Bridge of Arts) links the Institut de France with the Cour Carrée (central square) of the Palais du Louvre. Did you know the whole area has been associated with art and culture since the First French Empire when the Palais du Lourve was also known as the Palais des Arts?
Pont des Arts commissioned by Napoléon I
Inaugurated in 1804 under the reign of Napoléon I, the Pont des Arts was the first steel structure crossing the Seine. Built as a pedestrian bridge with nine arches it was an engineering feat in its time.
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Pont des Arts looking towards Institut de France
Sadly with repeated heavy shocks to its pillars from boats navigating the Seine, the bridge was damaged enough to require rebuilding. Rebuilt between 1981 and 1984, the bridge we now see is practically identical to the original except for the reduced number of arches. The arches now match those of Pont Neuf to facilitate navigation. Built to be stronger and last longer, unfortunately the bridge was to suffer another collapse.
Controversial lovelocks cause damage to Pont des Arts
Starting in the 2000s the Pont des Arts became the centre for lovers placing "love locks" on the bridge. There was a wave of visitors padlocking their declaration of love to each other by placing a padlock on the bridge and then throwing the key into the river.
These acts of undying love however were disastrous for the bridge because of the locks' heavy weight. In 2014 they caused a parapet of the bridge to give way. So in the summer of 2015 the council removed them, and replaced the railings with glass panels. Unfortunately, lovelocks are still being placed in other areas of the city and hawkers are aiding in this by selling padlocks in tourist locations.
Pont des Arts - A Cultural Bridge
The Pont des Arts is a true cultural living space where if you're lucky you'll be able to catch a spontaneous performance or view an artistic exhibition. The bridge has hosted contemporary art installations and street performances.
Useful Information
Location: Pont des Arts, 1st and 6th arrondissements, Paris
Closest métro stations: Louvre-Rivoli, Line 1 (5 mins walk) or Pont-Neuf, Line 7 (6 mins walk)
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