PARIS, France - Locals, tourists and the media flocked to the Flamme de la Liberté (Flame of Liberty) in commemoration of the 20th year of Princess Diana’s untimely death in a car accident in the tunnel underneath the Pont de l’Alma.

Situated at Place de l’Alma along the Seine River in the 8th District of Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower, the flame monument became Princess Diana’s unofficial memorial since the morning of Aug. 31, 1997, when the world woke up to news that the Princess of Wales was gone. From then on, the monument became the focal point where fans would leave tokens, pictures and, recently, lovelocks.

On the 20th year of Princess Diana’s passing, memorabilia, flowers, artworks, lovelocks, and photos of the late royal flooded the base of the Flame of Liberty. Followers played music and lit candles to honor her memory.

A Filipino couple from Chicago came across Princess Diana’s memorial in search for the famous lovelocks, and they were amazed to find out that the Flame of Liberty has been there since 1987 and is a token for the people of France symbolizing Franco-American friendship.

“We’re in Paris just visiting and we came across the memorial of Princess Diana and came here to pay respects for her passing in ’97,” said Savannah Montero.

Her partner Robert added, “When we saw the crowd and photos of Diana, it kinda juggled my memory and oh, it happened 20 years ago. I remember, when I was a kid, my mum was really upset when it happened and so, I was also upset by proxy. It’s really nice to see people here come together for her memory…”

Both were in grade school during the Princess’ death and witnessed how their parents mourned. Now, the couple is also a big fan of Princess Diana and her legacy.

A visiting Englishman, Thomas Bryant, was touched by how citizens paid tribute and respects to the late British princess in Paris.

“I think its quite sweet really. You know, Diana is an inspiration to millions. I think it’s the right place and the right way to do it. I’m actually quite proud of her being English and being here,” Bryant said.

He believes Princess Diana lives on.

“I think the legend of Diana lives on in her two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. I think that they carry on the good work Diana carried on around the world. So I believe that she lives on… In her two sons,” he said.