"Love locks on the bridge" Top 5 Page for this destination Florence Warnings Or Dangers Tip by brendareed

I learned about the love locks that couples put on bridges (and other places) shortly after arriving in Europe. I found it an interesting story and at the time did not realize how popular this idea has become. Even in Florence, on the Ponte Vecchio in the center near the bust of Benvenuto Cellini, lovers try to immortalize their love by placing a padlock on the bridge.

However, Florence does not share this enthusiasm for love and has clearly advised would-be lockers to beware that, if caught, they face a rather steep fine of €160. The locks can not only cause an eyesore, but they were proving to do some damage to the bridge as they multiplied and rusted from weather. On our first visit to Florence, I saw quite a few locks despite the fine warning. On my second visit, there were less locks in this area; although I didn’t see anyone monitoring the area for would-be lovers with locks in their hands.

One more thing before we leave the Ponte Vecchio – look for the Vasari Corridor, a raised walkway from the Medici era.