Place de la Presle

Start of the tour at the foot of the tanners' houses

As early as the 15th century, the Canal de la Martinette - among other things - provided the energy to turn the wheels of flour mills, spinning mills and silk mills.
In the early 19th century, tanning was one of the main activities in Romans. Some fifty tanners and tannery workers made use of the abundant water that flowed at the foot of the houses. The square was very busy, but noisy and smelly.
In the 20th century, factories grew up around the station, and the Presle district gradually lost its liveliness.

Walk up Quai Sainte Claire to the police station.