Does Paris Have Urinals in the Street?

By Alice Nichols

Paris, a city of love, romance, and art, is also famous for its architecture and lifestyle. However, there’s an interesting question that pops up in many minds when they plan to visit Paris – does Paris have urinals in the street? The answer is yes!

History of Street Urinals in Paris

Paris has a long history of public peeing. In the past, people were seen urinating on walls, streets, and even inside buildings. This not only created an unpleasant odor but also posed health hazards for the people living in the area.

To tackle this issue, the city of Paris introduced its first public urinal in 1834. These were known as “vespasiennes,” named after Emperor Vespasian who had imposed a tax on urine collection in ancient Rome.

Modern-Day Urinals in Paris

Today, you can still find modern-day versions of these vespasiennes on the streets of Paris. These are called “uritrottoirs,” which means “pavement urinals” and are designed to blend into the surroundings.

These eco-friendly urinals are made from recycled materials and have planters on top that grow flowers or herbs. They are also equipped with straw or sawdust that helps to contain any odors.

Controversy Surrounding Street Urinals

Despite their eco-friendliness and practicality, street urinals have faced criticism from some quarters. Some people feel that they are unsightly and take away from the beauty of Paris’ architecture.

Others argue that they objectify women as they are often placed near busy streets where women may feel uncomfortable while passing by.

However, supporters of street urinals claim that they serve an important purpose – reducing public peeing on streets and walls.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris does indeed have urinals in the street. From the first vespasiennes to the modern-day uritrottoirs, these public facilities have played an important role in keeping the streets clean and reducing public peeing.

While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, street urinals are an integral part of Parisian culture and history.