Until the 18th century, thanks to its commercial and recreational value, the Seine and its banks were the place to be in Paris. At that time, the Seine was a place of partying and pleasure.

Royal celebrations were organized along the Seine and citizens headed down to the banks to wash themselves and their clothes. But commerce was important and these frequent gatherings along the river hindered boat dockings. With the increasing needs of the city, there was a delicate balance between recreation and commerce.

From the 1750s, recreational activities were phased out while the Seine underwent many improvements to become an industrial and commercial waterway on a national level.

The exhibition “Paris Sur Seine: from the old docks to Paris Plages” invites you to discover the many faces of the river and its banks from the 18th century to today.
>more