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Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien: A Floating Piece of History

Step back in time aboard the Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien, the last floating washhouse in Europe, and discover the history of Laval's washerwomen.

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The Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien in Laval is a unique museum, the last remaining floating washhouse in Europe. Restored in 2013, it offers a glimpse into the lives of the washerwomen who once toiled on the Mayenne River.

A brief summary to Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien

Local tips

  • Check the Laval Tourism website for current opening hours and accessibility information before visiting.
  • Explore the quays along the Mayenne River for a scenic walk and views of the Bateau-Lavoir.
  • Visit the nearby Vieux-Château (Old Castle) and other historical sites in Laval to enrich your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien is located on Quai Paul Boudet in Laval. From the center of Laval, such as Place de la Trémoille, walk along the Mayenne River towards the Vieille Ville (Old Town). The Bateau-Lavoir will be visible on the riverbank. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The TUL (Transport Urbain Lavallois) bus network serves the Bateau-Lavoir area. Take any TUL bus line that stops at the 'St Julien' stop, which is located near the washhouse. Bus tickets can be purchased on board. A single ticket costs around €1.60.

  • Driving

    From the A81 highway, follow signs for Laval Centre. Once in the city center, follow signs for Quai Paul Boudet. Parking is available on the quays near the Bateau-Lavoir. Note that parking may be paid during certain hours. Free parking can be found on Quai Paul Boudet and Quai Alain Goupil. Several parking lots are available in Laval, including Parking de Gaulle and Parking Gambetta. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €1-2 per hour.

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Discover more about Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien

The Bateau-Lavoir Saint-Julien is a beautifully restored floating washhouse, a unique piece of Laval's history and the last of its kind in Europe. These 'bateaux-lavoirs' appeared in Laval in the 19th century, with around twenty of them at their peak, as the construction of the quays and the increasing use of cotton necessitated specific locations for washing clothes. Built in 1904, the Saint-Julien served as a workplace and a social hub for the washerwomen, known locally as 'poules d'eau' (water hens). These women worked hard, rinsing clothes in the river before washing them in hot water in vats on the upper deck. The boat could accommodate up to 40 washerwomen. The Saint-Julien ceased operations in 1969 due to the rise of washing machines. Saved from sinking in 2009 and restored in 2013, the Saint-Julien is now a living museum. Visitors can step aboard and experience the daily life of the washerwomen, with exhibits showcasing the tools and techniques they used. The museum features interactive displays and virtual tours, offering insights into the history and significance of these floating washhouses. Note that the site may be temporarily inaccessible for safety reasons.

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