This morning  we spent some time walking in the Canal Saint-Martin district.  

20140618_France_0003 This Canal Saint-Martin  is a 4.5 km long canal in Paris.  It connects the Canal de I'Ourcq to the river Seine and runs underground between Bastille (Paris Metro) and Republique (Paris Metro). Construction of the canal was ordered by Napoleon Bonaparte  in 1802.  The canal was built for supplying Paris with fresh water to support a growing population and help avoid diseases such as dysentery and cholera.  

20140618_France_0005 The canal was also used to supply Paris with food (grain), building supplies and other goods carried on canal boats.  By the 1960's, traffic had dwindled to a trickle and the canal narrowly escaped being filled in and paved over for a highway.  Today the canal is a popular destination for Parisians and tourists who watch the barges navigate the series of locks and road bridges.  

20140618_France_0004 The canal area inspired many painters.  We saw lots of street art in the area.  

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20140618_France_0001 We saw lots of people enjoying their lunches and reading beside the canal.  

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Another example of colourful street art.  

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 In the 19th century, the area was mostly occupied by working-class labourers.  Only recently has it started to attract professionals who are looking for apartments with views of the canal.

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There were several popular restaurants and bars along the canal.  The area is also very popular with students. 

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Another patisserie that we wandered into.   

20140618_France_0012 It really was a very nice  quiet neighbourhood (apart from the construction) full of new shops and wonderful cafes and bistros.  We also saw lots of boutiques and wine bars.  

20140618_Portfolio Photos_0081 There were lots of interesting opportunities for street photography.

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20140618_France_0009 A modern street bathroom.  In France like other European countries that I have been to it is common to pay to use the facilities.

20140618_France_0001 There were lots of interesting streets to explore.

20140618_France_0019 I can certainly understand why living in this area is so popular.  

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