River Seine Welcomes Swimmers Again After a Century of Restrictions

Paris has reopened the River Seine for public swimming for the first time in a century, with designated areas prepared for safe enjoyment as part of its legacy for the upcoming Olympics.

After a century-long prohibition, the River Seine in Paris is once again open to swimmers, marking a significant cultural and recreational milestone. The long-anticipated reopening, which comes in time for the 2024 Paris Olympics, allows athletes and the public to swim in its waters, which have been extensively cleaned since the ban was instated in 1923.

The official opening occurred Saturday morning at 08:00 local time, with a small enthusiastic crowd diving into the refreshing waters. Three designated swimming spots are available along the historic river—one located near the world-famous Eiffel Tower, another adjacent to the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, and a third set in eastern Paris. These zones are equipped with necessary facilities such as changing rooms, showers, and ample lounging space for up to 300 visitors.

Access to the swimming areas will be free until the end of August with specific hours for public swim times, requiring participants to be at least 10 or 14 years old depending on the location. Safety measures include the presence of lifeguards monitoring swimmers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

This milestone is part of an ongoing effort to rejuvenate the River Seine. The campaign to allow swimming first began in 1988, led by then-mayor Jacques Chirac, advocating for cleaner water. Over the last two decades, improvements have significantly reduced the level of harmful bacteria in the river, paving the way for this momentous occasion.

Ahead of the summer Olympics, an investment exceeding €1.4 billion was directed towards the Seine's rehabilitation, leading to questions about whether it would meet quality standards. Previous concerns arose when the river's water quality failed tests, particularly due to heavy rainfall affecting pollution levels. However, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo made headlines last summer by swimming in the Seine herself to affirm its safety for athletes and the public alike.

As anticipation builds for the Olympic events, this revitalization of the Seine adds to the excitement surrounding Paris 2024, celebrating both athleticism and the city's embrace of its natural waterways.