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After being closed to swimming for a century, the River Seine in Paris is now open to the public, allowing swimmers to enjoy its waters once more. This historic reopening, part of the city’s legacy in preparation for the upcoming 2024 Olympics, was celebrated with a first swim event on Saturday morning. Early risers gathered at three designated swimming zones – one by the Eiffel Tower, another close to the Notre Dame Cathedral, and a third in eastern Paris – all outfitted with amenities such as changing rooms, shower facilities, and lounge areas for up to 300 participants.
Free swimming sessions will be available until the end of August, with access for individuals aged 10 to 14, depending on the area. The presence of lifeguards will ensure safety throughout the experience.
The mission to reopen the Seine for swimming dates back to 1988, when then-mayor Jacques Chirac advocated for this vision. Over the past two decades, significant efforts have been made to reduce river pollution, facilitating a safe environment for swimmers.
The clean-up effort cost over €1.4 billion (approximately $1.6 billion) and aimed to ensure safety and enjoyment in the river. Despite past concerns over water quality and pollution levels related to rainfall, confidence has grown thanks to these revitalization projects. This past summer, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo showed her faith in the river's safety by swimming in its waters, alongside Olympic committee officials, to support the city's commitment to hosting a safe and memorable Olympic experience.
As Paris embraces its century-old dream of open swimming, residents and visitors alike are thrilled to take part in this newfound leisure activity.
After being closed to swimming for a century, the River Seine in Paris is now open to the public, allowing swimmers to enjoy its waters once more. This historic reopening, part of the city’s legacy in preparation for the upcoming 2024 Olympics, was celebrated with a first swim event on Saturday morning. Early risers gathered at three designated swimming zones – one by the Eiffel Tower, another close to the Notre Dame Cathedral, and a third in eastern Paris – all outfitted with amenities such as changing rooms, shower facilities, and lounge areas for up to 300 participants.
Free swimming sessions will be available until the end of August, with access for individuals aged 10 to 14, depending on the area. The presence of lifeguards will ensure safety throughout the experience.
The mission to reopen the Seine for swimming dates back to 1988, when then-mayor Jacques Chirac advocated for this vision. Over the past two decades, significant efforts have been made to reduce river pollution, facilitating a safe environment for swimmers.
The clean-up effort cost over €1.4 billion (approximately $1.6 billion) and aimed to ensure safety and enjoyment in the river. Despite past concerns over water quality and pollution levels related to rainfall, confidence has grown thanks to these revitalization projects. This past summer, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo showed her faith in the river's safety by swimming in its waters, alongside Olympic committee officials, to support the city's commitment to hosting a safe and memorable Olympic experience.
As Paris embraces its century-old dream of open swimming, residents and visitors alike are thrilled to take part in this newfound leisure activity.
