Paris, the city of love, lights, and fashion, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It’s known for its iconic landmarks, charming cafes, and unique cultural experiences. However, there’s a question that often arises among tourists and travelers- are there urinals on the sidewalks in Paris?
The Answer: Yes! Paris has public urinals on its sidewalks. These urinals are called “uritrottoirs” and were first introduced in 2018 as a part of a plan to combat public urination in the city.
What are Uritrottoirs?
Uritrottoirs are essentially public urinals that are designed to blend in with the environment while providing a convenient option for those who need to relieve themselves. These urinals look like flower pots with a small opening at the top for men to pee into. They’re made of durable materials such as concrete and metal and have an eco-friendly feature- they use straw as a natural filter.
Why Were Uritrottoirs Introduced?
Public urination has been a problem in Paris for decades. The city’s narrow streets and lack of public restrooms have made it difficult for people to find a place to go when nature calls.
As a result, many people resort to peeing in public places such as alleys or against buildings. This not only creates an unpleasant smell but also damages the buildings.
To tackle this issue, Paris authorities introduced Uritrottoirs as an innovative solution that would provide people with an alternative option for relieving themselves without causing any harm to the environment or property.
Where Can You Find Uritrottoirs?
Uritrottoirs can be found in various locations throughout Paris, including busy streets, parks, and tourist spots such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and Moulin Rouge. They’re usually placed in discreet locations to maintain privacy for users while also keeping the streets clean.
Controversy Surrounding Uritrottoirs:
Despite being an innovative solution to a long-standing problem, Uritrottoirs have faced criticism from some Parisians and tourists. Some people feel that the urinals are unsightly and take away from the beauty of the city. Others argue that they’re not suitable for women, children, or those with disabilities.
The Bottom Line:
Uritrottoirs may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they’re a practical solution to a real problem. They provide a convenient option for men who need to relieve themselves while keeping the streets clean and protecting buildings from damage. If you’re visiting Paris and come across an Uritrottoir, don’t be alarmed- it’s just another unique feature of this beautiful city!
- Paris has public urinals on its sidewalks called “uritrottoirs”.
- Uritrottoirs are designed to blend in with the environment while providing a convenient option for those who need to relieve themselves.
- They were introduced in 2018 as a part of a plan to combat public urination in the city.
- Uritrottoirs can be found in various locations throughout Paris, including busy streets, parks, and tourist spots such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and Moulin Rouge.
- Despite facing criticism from some Parisians and tourists, Uritrottoirs are a practical solution to a real problem.