In 2022, an entire neighborhood rallied against the closure of one of Paris's last baths, the Oberkampf pool, nestled in the capital's 11th arrondissement. The pool was due to be demolished and replaced by a housing project. Residents launched a petition to prevent the destruction of this historic swimming pool, built in 1885, and whose Art Deco style is unanimously appreciated by regulars. The good news is that it has now been saved!
"With this closure, the well-being of our local residents and the teaching of swimming in schools have been unfairly affected. It gave life to the neighborhood and to all the small local shops. The pool's economy and history, in these difficult times, is a real green lung for community life", explained Carole Battestini, who initiated the text.
Now listed as a Monument Historique, it has become untouchable, thanks to the mobilization of local residents. This L-shaped pool, topped by a glass dome, with its old cabins, is the last testimony to a piece of the capital's history, as the other five baths from this era have disappeared. Parisians will be able to continue swimming in this historic pool for many years to come!
Location
Oberkampf swimming pool
160 Rue Oberkampf
75011 Paris 11
