Img 9944.bains Douches Laval Laval TourismeIn the early 1920s, the majority of the population did not have a room dedicated to the toilet, and continued to wash with a pitcher and bowl.
Mayor Eugène Jamin initiated the construction of shower-baths, taking advantage of generous state subsidies.
The elected officials’ ambition was to create a building that would not only be functional, but would also serve as a social palace, where the various strata of Laval society could meet.
Architect Léon-Henri Guinebretière was entrusted with the project, and the building opened its doors to the general public in 1927. Comprising 16 shower cubicles and 6 bathing cubicles, les bains douches remained in operation until 2002. The richly decorated interior is the work of master mosaicist Isodore Odorico fils, who uses Art Deco to sublimate the element of water.
A place not to be missed!
The generous activity that has already been shown in favour of healthy housing, finds here a new and no less happy expression. By seeking to put at the service of all, and especially the poorest, the water that refreshes the body, restores our strength, softens our tired muscles and spreads throughout our being an indescribable feeling of peace and ease, you are once again doing a useful and humane work.
July 1st to August 30th, 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm
(except July 14th and August 15th, from 2pm to 6pm)
Closed on Mondays and Sunday mornings
Open on Heritage Days
Open for temporary exhibitions
Outside our regular opening hours, the shower baths are open to group visits by prior arrangement.
For further information, contact us on 02 43 49 46 46
49 people maximum per visit
80€ / hour + 3€ per person present
The shower baths are not accessible to people with reduced mobility.
