Locals and tourists also head to the canals for unique events that are unlike anything that can be experienced elsewhere. Take for instance the Paris-Plages, that take place every summer.
Each July, artificial sand, beach chairs and other goodies are brought in to line the sides of the canal, creating little “beaches” for everyone to enjoy. The pop-up beaches even include tiki bars and water sports!
Perhaps one of the reasons constructions on the system took so long was all of the delays it faced early on. Napoleon, who ordered it to begin in the first place, fell during the 1813 Battle of the Nations, which caused rival forces to seize control of Paris in 1814.
Around the same time was the beginning of the Bourbon Restoration. Luckily, they were able to wrap everything up and get it done by 1825.
But what was once a great source of transportation of goods for Paris is used more for leisure these days. In fact, in the 1960’s, the canal was almost filled in with pavement, since traffic has all but screeched to a halt. That is, of course, with the exception of passenger boats full of wine-sipping tourists and locals alike, who flock to the area for its scenic beauty.
There are also all sorts of restaurants and shops along the canal, which makes it an even more popular area with those looking to relax and spend their money.
The area as a whole has become so popular that it can be seen in multiple shows and movies that stretch across multiple decades. From Jean Vigo’s 1934 film, L’Atalante, to the more recent, Amélie, in 2001. Musicians like the Courteneers have also written about it within their songs.
Artist Alfred Sisley has painted it in a few of his works, including his 1870 painting, View of the Canal Saint-Martin. If lawmakers succeed in their wishes to clean up the canals, it is possible we may see it in more productions in the future, as well.
Much unlike the Niagara Falls, the canal in Paris is actually drained on a somewhat regular basis. City officials decided to properly drain the canals every 10-15 years. After all, with it being in such a populated area, it is bound to become filled with debris that blocks the proper flow.
In fact, when they last drained it in 2001, they pulled out more than 40 tons of garbage – that’s over 80,000 pounds of trash! But it wasn’t just your typical cups and bottles and old furniture, etc. Authorities found some pretty questionable stuff during the operation.