Walking along this canal, pausing to check out the trendy shops and lingering over a sunny lunch, it's hard to believe that the water link was built by Napoléon to provide the city with drinking water. When the Industrial Revolution kicked in, all kinds of industry set up shop on its banks -- which means that nowadays, 21st-century artists are enjoying converted studios and gallery spaces in this area. The scenic quays, locks, and footbridges make a magnificent area for strolling, especially on Sunday when cars are blocked from the core area. This area has become one of the most popular places to have an apartment, partly because of its low rents but mostly because of its parks, artsy atmosphere, and lovely canal promenade. There are EUR 1.50 barge rides (Embarkation at 13 quai de la Loire, La Villette) through the canal's nine locks along the once-industrial Bassin de la Villette to the nearby Parc de la Villette.
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