Love padlocks (or love locks) – the symbolic gesture of people expressing their everlasting love by putting their names on a padlock and attaching it to a bridge, fence, or gate – started in Rome as locals began copying the characters in Italian author Federico Moccia’s bestselling romantic novel “Ho Voglia di Te” (“I Want You”) and soon it spread to other countries and cities, even making it to New York City’s Brooklyn Bridge.

While it seems incrediby romantic to countless star struck lovers across the globe it’s a major headache to city officials and maintenance crews who have to periodically inspect bridges and buildings and remove the padlocks. The rust from the locks could cause severe damage to stone bridges such as the historic Rialto bridge in Venice, Italy and many residents view the people attaching the locks as nothing more than vandals who are ruining marble, iron and stone. In an outraged front page editorial an Italian newspaper even called for €3000 (approx. $4000) fines and up to a year in jail for offenders who are caught in the act.

What do you think of love padlocks – romantic or vandalism?

Happy Valentine’s Day from Jim and Sharon!