Tuesday, December 7, 2010

A new cult: Liebesschlösser

What has become one of the most romantic places in Germany? An old chapel, a cozy cafe, or maybe a glitzy bar? Far from it, a steel bridge in the heart of Cologne. Until 2008 the Hohenzollern bridge was just another bridge across the Rhine, used by trains, bicyclists and pedestrians. It all started in the summer of 2008 when a couple tied a padlock to the metal fence, throwing the key to it into the cold waters of the Rhine river. Since the number of so called "Liebesschlösser" has grown to the tens of thousands, almost completely covering the venerable fence. Tourists now come to see this attraction and it is not uncommon to find wedding parties engaging in this new tradition. Hurry up, space is limited... and the padlock industry loves your business!

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