Locks Of Love Locked On Two Heart-shaped Frames On The Gmunden Esplanade, On The Western Shore Of Lake Traunsee. Royalty-Free Stock Photo

A love lock or love padlock is a padlock that couples lock to a bridge, fence, gate, monument, or similar public fixture 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.Since the 2000s, love locks have proliferated at an increasing number of locations worldwide. They are treated by some municipal authorities as litter or vandalism, and there is some cost to their removal. However, there are other authorities who embrace them, and who use them as fundraising projects or tourist attractions.The Gmunden Esplanade is a popular promenade for guests and locals, stretching along Lake Traunsee from Rathausplatz to Schloss Ort and Toscanapark. The construction of the Esplanade began in 1850 and was completed in 1862.