The River Seine in Paris has officially reopened for public swimming for the first time since 1923! This exciting change is part of the preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics, where athletes will compete in its waters.
On Saturday morning at 8 AM, enthusiastic swimmers rushed to designated areas, diving into the historic river. There are now three swimming zones: one near the iconic Eiffel Tower, another by Notre Dame Cathedral, and one in eastern Paris, all equipped with changing rooms, showers, and lounge areas for up to 300 swimmers.
The swimming spots are free and open to ages 10 to 14, depending on the site, and will be supervised by lifeguards until the end of August.
The ban on swimming in the Seine lasted for 100 years, primarily due to pollution concerns. A significant cleanup effort was started after former mayor Jacques Chirac's promise in 1988. In recent years, investments of over €1.4 billion have improved the water quality dramatically, though concerns about pollution arose before the Olympics when there were failed water quality tests.
Last summer, Mayor Anne Hidalgo took the plunge herself to demonstrate that the Seine is now safe for swimming, rekindling the joys of summer in Paris. Will you take the plunge?
On Saturday morning at 8 AM, enthusiastic swimmers rushed to designated areas, diving into the historic river. There are now three swimming zones: one near the iconic Eiffel Tower, another by Notre Dame Cathedral, and one in eastern Paris, all equipped with changing rooms, showers, and lounge areas for up to 300 swimmers.
The swimming spots are free and open to ages 10 to 14, depending on the site, and will be supervised by lifeguards until the end of August.
The ban on swimming in the Seine lasted for 100 years, primarily due to pollution concerns. A significant cleanup effort was started after former mayor Jacques Chirac's promise in 1988. In recent years, investments of over €1.4 billion have improved the water quality dramatically, though concerns about pollution arose before the Olympics when there were failed water quality tests.
Last summer, Mayor Anne Hidalgo took the plunge herself to demonstrate that the Seine is now safe for swimming, rekindling the joys of summer in Paris. Will you take the plunge?
