To the west of Paris, near Roland Garros and the Parc des Princes, another icon completes this golden triangle of sport. A popular bathing and leisure spot, it has forged a legend as one of the capital’s most sought-after spots, culminating in its inclusion on the Monuments Historiques list in 1990. Introducing the timeless Piscine Molitor.
One of Paris’s finest Art Deco landmarks
Inaugurated in 1929, the Piscine Molitor is much more than just a Parisian pool: it’s a veritable icon. Located in the 16th arrondissement, its refined Art Deco style, geometric white façade and ornate balconies have left their mark on history, giving it the look of an ocean liner moored in the heart of the city. As soon as it opened, it became a fashionable venue, frequented by Parisians and celebrities alike.
Designed by architect Lucien Pollet, Molitor perfectly embodies the Art Deco spirit of the interwar period. Its clean lines, colorful mosaics and bright yellow metal railings reflect the era’s quest for harmony and modernity. Inside, decorative details such as geometric mosaics, stained-glass windows and period frescoes bear witness to the craftsmanship of the period. Every element has been designed to combine elegance and functionality, creating a unique atmosphere not found in any other Parisian swimming pool.
After decades as a landmark of Parisian life, Molitor closed in 1989 and gradually fell into disrepair. Graffiti artists and urban artists then took over its walls, turning the place into an open-air gallery. But in 2014, after extensive restoration work, the pool was restored to its original splendor. The architects in charge of the project preserved the Art Deco soul of the place, while integrating modern facilities.
Today, Molitor is a luxury hotel, wellness center and cultural venue. Visitors can bathe in its two legendary pools, one indoor and one outdoor, heated all year round, and enjoy the unique setting. The yellow lines, mosaics and balconies always give the impression of plunging into a Roaring Twenties setting, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
📍Location: Piscine Molitor – 10, avenue de la Porte Molitor, 75016