The River Seine in Paris has officially reopened to swimmers, allowing the public to enjoy its waters for the first time in a century. The long-awaited opening aligns with the upcoming 2024 Olympics, where athletes will showcase their skills in specially cleaned waters.
On Saturday at 08:00 local time, eager swimmers flocked to the designated swimming spots, which include areas near the iconic Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Each site is equipped with changing rooms, showers, and beach-style amenities, accommodating up to 300 sunbathers. Access remains free until the end of August, with age restrictions of 10 or 14 years depending on the location. Lifeguards are stationed to ensure safety for all who dive in.
This move to lift the long-standing ban dates back to 1988 and represents significant strides in reducing river pollution, thanks to major investments totaling over €1.4 billion in recent years. Though there were concerns about water quality before the Olympics, city officials have been proactive, with Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo even taking a plunge to affirm the river’s safety.
It's a historic moment for Paris, as the public gets to enjoy a clean and refreshed Seine, making waves just in time for the Summer Games!
On Saturday at 08:00 local time, eager swimmers flocked to the designated swimming spots, which include areas near the iconic Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Each site is equipped with changing rooms, showers, and beach-style amenities, accommodating up to 300 sunbathers. Access remains free until the end of August, with age restrictions of 10 or 14 years depending on the location. Lifeguards are stationed to ensure safety for all who dive in.
This move to lift the long-standing ban dates back to 1988 and represents significant strides in reducing river pollution, thanks to major investments totaling over €1.4 billion in recent years. Though there were concerns about water quality before the Olympics, city officials have been proactive, with Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo even taking a plunge to affirm the river’s safety.
It's a historic moment for Paris, as the public gets to enjoy a clean and refreshed Seine, making waves just in time for the Summer Games!
