Abandoned swimming pools in France represent fascinating vestiges of a bygone era, when these places were synonymous with leisure and conviviality. Today, left to decay, 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, and 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 Tournesol pools , designed in the 1970s, stood out for their dome-shaped architecture that could be partially opened, reminiscent of a sunflower. These modular structures were installed extensively throughout the country to promote swimming. However, several factors led to the gradual abandonment of many of these pools:
- Aging infrastructure : High maintenance and upgrade costs have made the operation of some swimming pools unprofitable.
- Changes in lifestyles : The diversification of leisure activities and competition from other facilities have reduced the number of visitors to these establishments.
- Budgetary constraints : Local authorities, faced with financial restrictions, have sometimes chosen to permanently close these sites rather than renovate them.
Chapter 2: Emblematic Examples of Abandoned Swimming Pools in France
Exploring abandoned swimming pools offers an immersive journey through time. Here are a few notable examples:
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Tournesol swimming pool in Aniche : Located in the North, this iconic swimming pool, inaugurated in 1975, was closed in 2017. Its characteristic dome-shaped architecture attracts urban exploration 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 leave in 1936, has been abandoned since 2003, offering a poignant testimony of the past.
Chapter 3: Precautions and recommendations for exploring abandoned swimming pools
Exploring abandoned swimming pools can be a rewarding experience, but it requires rigorous 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 private property. Entering them without permission is an offense. It is therefore crucial to inquire about the legal status of the location and obtain the necessary permissions.
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Respect for the sites : Urban exploration is based on the principle of "take nothing, leave nothing." It is important to preserve the integrity of the sites by avoiding any damage and leaving no waste behind.
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Discretion : To protect these places from acts of vandalism, it is recommended not to publicly disclose their precise location.
