A remarkable moment unfolded in Paris on Saturday, July 5, 2025. After more than a century of waiting, people finally plunged into the waters of the Seine River. This historic event marks the end of a long ban, put in place in 1923 because the river was simply too dirty. For generations, swimming in the heart of the city was just a dream, now it’s real.
For decades, the Seine was a bustling waterway, but not one you’d want to dip a toe in. High pollution levels made it unsafe. The clean-up effort, spurred by the city’s role in hosting major sports events, has been massive. It’s a testament to what a city can do when it puts its mind, and a lot of money, into a big project.
A Long Road to Clean Water
The idea of making the Seine swimmable again isn’t new. Back in 1988, then-Paris Mayor Jacques Chirac promised to clean the river. It was a bold claim, and for many years, it felt like an impossible one. But progress was made. Over two decades, sewage bacteria entering the river dropped significantly. This was a slow, steady fight against pollution.
The push got a major boost when Paris secured the 2024 Olympic Games. Suddenly, cleaning the Seine wasn’t just a dream; it was a necessity. The river was set to host events like triathlon and marathon swimming. This urgency led to a huge investment of 1.4 billion Euros to make the water sparkling clean.
Ready for a Dip
Now, three special spots along the Seine are open for public swimming. You can take a dip near the iconic Eiffel Tower, close to the historic Notre Dame Cathedral, and in an area on the eastern side of Paris. They’ve even thought of everything needed for a comfortable swim. There are places to change clothes and take a shower right by the water.
These new swimming areas will stay open until the end of August. They are free for everyone to enjoy during set hours. Children must meet age requirements, either 10 or 14 years old, depending on which spot they choose. And don’t worry, lifeguards and security staff are on hand to keep everyone safe.
Proving the Waters are Clean
The journey to clean water wasn’t without its bumps. Even after all the work, there were times when heavy rain caused pollution levels to rise. This led to questions about whether the river would truly be ready for the Olympic competitions. The city faced some doubts.
To show just how confident they were, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and other Olympic officials took the plunge themselves. They swam in the Seine, sending a clear message that the water was safe. It was a public demonstration of faith in the massive cleanup effort. This bold act helped reassure people. Now, the public can finally enjoy a historic swim, a triumph for the city and its river.
Source: bbc
