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This iconic pool in the capital could soon disappear

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The Editor

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As the beautiful days finally start to peek their heads in the capital, the Parisian pools are getting ready to welcome waves of swimmers seeking a bit of refreshment. Unfortunately, one of the most famous pools in the City of Light won’t be hosting them for much longer.

It has won 5 extra years. Inaugurated in 2006 by Bertrand Delanoë, then mayor of Paris, the Joséphine Baker pool was supposed to be open for 15 years before closing its doors. And though the project has been delayed, after 20 years of loyal service (or almost), it could very well close its doors before the end of 2026. So, is it a true tragedy or a rescue before drowning?


A rather tumultuous story

When it first opened in 2006, the pool aimed to become one of the references of Paris Beach. However, its life has been far from a smooth river. From the very first months, tiles started to come off. It is ens

Victim of a fire, and in 2007, an incident threatened to sink the entire building — a concrete caisson resting on steel floats. It got to the point where the structure had to close on several occasions, including in November 2007, just over a year after its opening, leading to the decision to close the place until 2008.

Fortunately, this legendary pool, featuring a 25-meter long basin, a kiddie pool, and a large solarium, has managed to emerge from the water, and today welcomes hundreds and hundreds of Parisians in their swimsuits and caps who come to take a dip, soak up the sun, or enjoy a movie session with their feet in the water.


The End of an Era

Unfortunately, after two decades, this particularly beloved swimming area known for its extraordinary view of the Seine may soon be closing its doors. That's at least what a source close to the matter shared with our colleagues from Actu Paris. The reason... : a complex and costly maintenance. For now, however, neither the city hall of Paris nor that of the 13th, where the pool is located, have confirmed the information. Whatever happens, we can imagine the sadness of regulars if a decision is made to end the wonderful life of the Joséphine Baker pool.