Alerts, friends: the doors to this historic pool are now open again! The Pontoise swimming pool has been reborn and reopened to us since December 4, 2023! It's time to (re)discover this space that combines history, art and sport. Inaugurated in 1934 and designed by Lucien Pollet(the architect behind the Molitor pool, the Jonquière pool (now Bernard Lafay) and the Pailleron pool), this pool is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a place steeped in history. It has seen the likes of Johnny Weissmuller and Commandant Cousteau, and has been the backdrop for a number of landmark films.
The pool was made famous by Jacques Cousteau. In fact, it was in this pool that the famous French commander first tested his diving suit in 1936! It was also used as a film set for Krzysztof Kieślowski's Trois Couleurs : Bleu, Claude Sautet's Nelly et monsieur Arnaud and even Jean-Pierre Jeunet's Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain.
Classified as a Historic Monument in 1998, the building houses a large pool bathed in daylight thanks to the large glass roof overhead, and framed on either side by vintage changing cubicles in the upper gallery. In the evening, the Pontoise swimming pool is transformed and swimmers can do laps in a special atmosphere, lit only by spotlights that illuminate the pool from the bottom; all to the sound of classical music.
The challenge of renovating the Pontoise swimming pool lay not only in restoring its Art Deco aesthetic, but also in modernizing its facilities. With a budget of 17.065 million euros, the project preserved the historic features while improving energy efficiency and accessibility. Work included renovation of the original glass roof, thermal insulation, and the installation of new air-handling technologies. By scraping off the white paint, they realized that the original color was yellow, and the pool has been restored to its original hues and typical character inscriptions.
As well as the mosaics, which have been restored to their former beauty, don't miss the unusual Invider in this mythical location.
In addition to the historic 33-meter pool, the renovated pool now offers a complete fitness area, with no less than 4 squash courts, a weight room, a cardio area and a fitness room. These modern facilities blend harmoniously into the Art Deco setting, creating a unique experience for swimmers and athletes alike.
The site, listed in the Inventaire supplémentaire des monuments historiques, has also been made accessible to people with reduced mobility. This reopening is an opportunity to rediscover an emblematic Parisian landmark, combining heritage, sport and well-being.
Rates are slightly higher than for conventional municipal pools, but remain affordable: €5. 20 full rate and €3.10 reduced rate. A range of subscriptions are available for daytime, evening and all-day swimming, with or without activities. Note that only squash is not included in subscription packages, but a preferential rate is applied to subscribers.
Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, the Pontoise pool is a must for lovers of swimming and architecture, but also for those looking to recharge their batteries in an elegant, historic setting. For many, it's also the pool that taught them to swim! Shall we go back?
Location
Pontoise swimming pool
19 rue de Pontoise
75005 Paris 5
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.paris.fr
