05.07.2025 18:01
The Seine River in Paris, the capital of France, has been opened to the public for the first time after a 100-year swimming ban was lifted. Following cleaning efforts costing 1.4 billion euros, the river will allow people to swim in three areas near the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame for free.
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One of the symbols of Paris, the capital of France, the Seine River has been opened to the public for the first time since the swimming ban that has been in effect since 1923 was lifted. With this development, which took place after 102 years, swimming is now allowed in the heart of Paris, under the shadows of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
THEY FLOODED IN EARLY MORNING HOURS
According to a report by the BBC, many swimmers arrived at the Seine River today at 08:00 local time (09:00 TRT) and entered the water.
During the Olympic Games held in Paris last summer, the river was specially cleaned for triathlon, marathon swimming, and paratriathlon events. Now, as a result of this effort, the Seine River hosts three separate areas that the public can use for swimming.
The swimming areas are located near the Eiffel Tower, around Notre Dame Cathedral, and in the eastern part of Paris. Each of the three areas is equipped with changing cabins, showers, and beach furniture, allowing approximately 300 people to relax at the same time.
WILL PROVIDE FREE SERVICE
The swimming areas are designed to be open for individuals aged at least 10 or 14, depending on the location. The areas will operate completely free of charge during designated time slots. Additionally, lifeguards will ensure safety in all areas, while observer teams will supervise the lifeguards.
1.4 BILLION EUROS SPENT
Swimming in the Seine River, which was previously considered risky for health due to high pollution and bacterial levels, was banned. However, over 1.4 billion euros were invested to clean the river before the Olympics.
Still, it has been noted that during certain periods, especially on days with increased rainfall, the water quality did not meet certain standards, leading to postponements of events or affecting athletes' performances.
BACTERIA FROM FECES WERE THE ISSUE
The first serious push for lifting the swimming ban in Paris was made in 1988 by the then Mayor, Jacques Chirac, who later became the President of France. Over the years, improvements in sewage systems and water treatment infrastructure have significantly reduced the levels of fecal bacteria entering the Seine River.
In July 2024, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and officials from the Olympic Committee personally entered the water to demonstrate the safety of the Seine River. Today, however, beyond this symbolic act, the river has been opened to the public after a century.
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