Why Are There Outdoor Urinals in Paris?

By Robert Palmer

Paris is known as the City of Love, but it’s also famous for something else – outdoor urinals! Yes, you read that right.

You’ll find these unique public toilets on the streets of Paris. But why do they exist? Let’s dive into the history and reasons behind them.

The History of Outdoor Urinals in Paris

Believe it or not, outdoor urinals have been a part of Parisian life since the 19th century. Back then, they were known as “vespasiennes” after the Roman emperor Vespasian who built public toilets in Rome. The first vespasiennes were small buildings with multiple stalls and were used by both men and women.

However, things changed during World War II when Paris experienced a shortage of metal and building materials. To solve this problem, officials decided to replace the traditional vespasiennes with outdoor urinals made out of cast iron.

Why Do They Exist?

The primary reason for installing outdoor urinals was to combat public urination on the streets. Before their installation, people would often relieve themselves in alleyways or behind buildings. This led to unsanitary conditions and unpleasant odors throughout the city.

By providing a designated area for men to use the bathroom outdoors, Paris officials hoped to decrease public urination while also improving hygiene on the streets.

How Do They Work?

Outdoor urinals in Paris are quite simple in design. They consist of a circular bowl with an opening at the top and a pipe leading down to a sewer system. The user stands on a grate above the bowl and can relieve themselves directly into it.

Most outdoor urinals are designed for men only, although some models have been created for women as well. These versions are typically enclosed so that women can have privacy while using them.

Controversy Surrounding Outdoor Urinals

Despite their intended purpose, outdoor urinals have sparked controversy in recent years. Some people argue that they are unsightly and take away from the beauty of the city. Others claim that they are discriminatory towards women who don’t have access to them or feel uncomfortable using them.

Additionally, some critics argue that outdoor urinals promote a culture of public urination rather than discouraging it. They believe that by providing a designated area for men to relieve themselves outdoors, Paris officials are sending the message that it’s acceptable behavior.

Conclusion

Love them or hate them, outdoor urinals are a unique part of Parisian culture. Understanding their history and purpose can help visitors appreciate their significance and why they exist. Whether you choose to use them or not is up to you, but one thing is for sure – they’re not going anywhere anytime soon!

9 Related Question Answers Found

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