This Art Deco swimming pool has reopened after extensive US $110 million renovations began in 2011, but its origins hark back to 1929.
Between the world wars, this was Paris’ ultimate hangout and its popularity endured for decades, becoming synonymous with fashion shows and star-studded galas. It was in 1946 that Micheline Bernardini, a dancer from Casino de Paris, modelled the world’s first bikini at the open-air pool.
The 16th District facility fell into decline by the eighties, when it was to be levelled and turned into apartments, though thankfully the bulldozers never arrived. For the best part of two decades the urban oasis became a grungy graffiti den and played host to illegal raves of up to 5,000 people, as well as other illicit gatherings.
But 25 years after it was due to be destroyed, the iconic Piscine Molitor has been reopened as part of a luxury hotel and spa complex.
The two pools, a 50-metre lido and 33-metre indoor pool, have been totally restored, with the indoor pool remaining the centrepiece of the facility. The luxury complex boasts a 124-room hotel, complete with spa and gym.
An annual Molitor membership costs just over $4,000, but if you fancy taking the plunge for the day, you will be asked to splash out $250.
The pool maintined its popularity throughout winter as a skating rink (1938)