Love locks are padlocks that couples lock to a public fixture, such as a bridge, fence, gate, or monument, to symbolize their love. Typically, the sweethearts names or initials, and perhaps the date, are inscribed on the padlock, and its key is thrown away, often into a nearby river, to symbolize unbreakable love. Love locks have proliferated at an increasing number of locations worldwide since the 2000s. However, they are treated by some municipal authorities as litter or vandalism, and there is some cost to their removal. Love locks have existed for quite some time, though there are no certain sources for their origin. In Europe, love locks started appearing in the early 2000s. Love locks are a symbol of love and commitment, and they are perfect for various occasions, such as confessing love, strengthening a promise, and perpetuating a particular city on a trip. However, love locks have caused controversy and damage in some places, such as Paris, where nearly 3 meters of the Pont des Arts bridge fell into the Seine in 2014 due to the weight of the locks. Therefore, some authorities and owners of various landmarks have expressed concern and often have the padlocks removed.