Photos: First Gay Marriage Celebrated In France Amid Tight Security

Vincent Autin and Bruno Boileau become first same-sex couple to marry in France

After months of mass street-demonstrations that have shaken France, violent clashes between some groups and riot police, 172 hours of heated parliament debate and a warning of a 30% rise in homophobic acts, Vincent Autin and Bruno Boileau on Tuesday, became the first same-sex couple to marry in France.

This comes barely 10 days after a controversial change in the law of the country.

Vincent Aubin and Bruno Boileau who have been living together for years,  exchanged vows in Montpellier (France's self-proclaimed most gay-friendly city)  city hall in presence of the mayor, relatives, friends and media as police stood guard outside to ensure the ceremony was not disrupted.

"It's a great pleasure for me to declare you married by law," said Montpellier's left-wing Mayor Helene Mandroux, as the couple embraced, amidst cheer from an audience of about 500.

The change in the law to permit same sex marriage came into force this month and made France the 14th country to allow gay weddings.