Canal de Brienne

The Canal de Brienne is a 1.5 km waterway in Toulouse that connects the Garonne River with the Canal du Midi. Water levels are managed by two locks that allow navigation between these two main waterways.

The waterway was constructed in 1776 to transport water from the Garonne to the Canal lateral à la Garonne. It also provided access to the port de la Daurade and served as a key infrastructure project for the city.

The waterway is named after Étienne Charles de Loménie de Brienne, an archbishop of Toulouse during the 18th century. The name reflects the Enlightenment era and remains part of the local identity today.

The area is easily accessible on foot with walking paths along the banks. The two locks are visible from public areas and demonstrate how water moves between different levels throughout the route.

The waterway overcomes elevation changes along its path through a clever lock system. This technical feature reveals why it was considered an engineering achievement of its time.

Location: Toulouse

Official opening: April 14, 1776

Elevation above the sea: 132 m

GPS coordinates: 43.60787,1.42633

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:42