The Bièvre is a small river that once flowed through the southern part of Paris. It was originally a clean and lively river, but over time, due to urbanization and industrialization, it became polluted and eventually covered over and confined to an underground sewer system in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Today, the Bièvre mostly remains hidden from view, flowing underground through the 13th and 5th arrondissements of Paris. Although recent years have seen discussions about uncovering and revitalizing sections of the river, these restoration projects are still in early planning stages.
The path of the old river is commemorated by plaques and historic markers starting near Parc Kellerman in the southern part of the 13th arrondissement. These markers meander through the 13th and 5th arrondissements, eventually leading to the Seine. Our walk will trace the route of these plaques and markers from Parc Kellerman to the Seine, pausing along the way to explore and discuss key moments in the river's history.
We will meet at the Poterne des Peupliers tram stop (line T3), heading in the direction of Porte de Vincennes.
The walk organizer's phone number will be sent on the reminder emails so that you may notify him if you are going to be late.
The organizer, Rick Jones, has been living in Paris since the summer of 2018. He is an avid walker who has—among other things—walked the entire length of all 14 of Paris's metro lines. And he is a founding member of the Paris Flâneur and Boulevardier Association.
