Paris’s Unseen Feat

The construction of Canal Saint-Martin was a massive undertaking that highlighted the engineering brilliance of the early 19th century. Engineers crafted a network of nine locks and two swing bridges, allowing boats to manage the 82-foot elevation difference between the Seine and the Canal de l’Ourcq. This design allowed vessels to move smoothly.

Workers relied on simple hand tools, shovels, and horse-drawn carts as they carved out the enormous trench through the city. This extraordinary feat showcased human determination and ingenuity. It also paved the way for the canal’s future impact on Paris’s growth and commerce, leaving a legacy that would stand the test of time.