Strolling across the Passerelle des Arts with views over the Seine in Paris

History and visit to the Passerelle des Arts in Paris

The Passerelle des Arts stands out as a true Parisian wonder, highly prized by lovers, particularly because it is exclusively pedestrian, closed to automobile traffic. It is freely accessible day and night, all year round. This prestigious building has been recognized as a historic monument of France for more than four decades. Majestically spanning the Seine, the footbridge provides a connection between the banks of the 1st and 6th arrondissement, precisely between the Malaquais and Conti quays, as well as the François-Mitterrand and Louvre quays. To get there, visitors can take the metro to Pont Neuf or Louvre-Rivoli stations. A Vélib’ station is also nearby, less than 1 km away.

Today considered more of a bridge than a simple footbridge, it takes its name from its proximity to the Quai du Louvre, located a stone’s throw from the famous Palais du Louvre. The latter was known as the Palais des Arts during the First Empire, when the building was constructed. Initially, it was just a modest wooden footbridge designed to connect the Institut de France to the Louvre. Its construction, carried out between 1801 and 1804, although it appeared fragile, marked an important milestone, the footbridge being one of the first metal bridges in Paris. The innovative idea of designing a metal bridge, specifically cast iron, was considered a remarkable technical feat of the Napoleonic era, inspired by British constructions. Responsibility for its creation was entrusted to Louis-Alexandre de Cessart and Jacques Vincent de Lacroix Dillon. The bridge was intended to evoke a garden, decorated with plants and flowers. In 1852, the union of two arches reduced the number to eight, and at that time, passage over the bridge became chargeable. Unfortunately, the structure did not withstand the tests of the two world wars. This alarming fact was noted in 1976 by the general inspection, leading to the closure of the bridge the following year to prevent any tragedy. Two years after its closure, the footbridge collapsed following a collision with a barge. It was rebuilt in 1981 according to the original plans of Louis Arretche, but with only seven arches and modern construction materials, more resistant than the original ones. Its reopening established it as an exclusively pedestrian space, abolishing the toll. Part of the old footbridge has been preserved and is visible at the Nogent-sur-Marne marina.

Now nicknamed « the bridge of loves » or « the bridge of padlocks », the Passerelle des Arts is famous as one of the first bridges and most renowned for the romantic tradition of hanging padlocks by lovers who then throw away the keys in the Seine. The place is perfect for a romantic evening stroll or a daytime picnic. Entirely closed to motorized vehicles, the footbridge is perfectly suited for children, thanks to its parapets secured by grilles. It is also a gathering place for young people who come to sing and play music in the evening. Sometimes, artistic exhibitions are organized there, daily attracting painters and photographers who come to seek inspiration.