Abandoned swimming pools in France represent fascinating vestiges of a bygone era, when these places were synonymous with leisure and conviviality. Today, left abandoned, these aquatic structures attract urban exploration enthusiasts, or urbex , eager to delve into the history and unique atmosphere of these forgotten sites. In this article, we invite you to discover the history of these pools, the reasons for their abandonment, as well as emblematic examples across the country.
Chapter 1: History and decline of swimming pools in France
During the 20th century, France saw a proliferation of public swimming pools, symbols of modernity and well-being. Among them, the Piscines Tournesol , designed in the 1970s, were distinguished by their dome-shaped architecture that could partially open, reminiscent of a sunflower. These modular structures were massively installed across the country to promote swimming. However, several factors led to the gradual abandonment of many pools:
- Aging infrastructure : High maintenance and compliance costs have made the operation of some swimming pools unprofitable.
- Changing lifestyles : The diversification of leisure activities and competition from other facilities have reduced attendance at these establishments.
- Budgetary constraints : Local authorities, faced with financial restrictions, have sometimes chosen to close these sites permanently rather than renovate them.
Chapter 2: Emblematic examples of abandoned swimming pools in France
Exploring abandoned pools offers an immersive journey through time. Here are some notable examples:
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Tournesol d'Aniche Swimming Pool : Located in the North, this iconic swimming pool, inaugurated in 1975, was closed in 2017. Its characteristic dome-shaped architecture attracts urbex enthusiasts.
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Luminy swimming pool in Marseille : Abandoned for more than ten years, this swimming pool offers a striking setting with its structures invaded by vegetation and its walls covered in graffiti.
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Piscine des Grenouilles in Île-de-France : This water park, very popular after the introduction of paid holidays in 1936, has been abandoned since 2003, offering a poignant testimony to the past.
Chapter 3: Precautions and recommendations for exploring abandoned pools
Exploring abandoned pools can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful preparation:
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Safety : These structures, often dilapidated, present risks such as unstable floors, debris or hazardous substances. It is essential to wear appropriate equipment, including sturdy shoes, gloves and a protective mask.
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Legality : Many of these sites are privately owned. Entering them without permission is an offence. It is therefore crucial to find out about the legal status of the place and obtain the necessary permissions.
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Respect for places : Urbex is based on the principle of "take nothing, leave nothing". It is important to preserve the integrity of the sites by avoiding any degradation and leaving no waste behind.
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Discretion : To protect these locations from vandalism, it is recommended that their precise location not be publicly disclosed.
