Briare Canal, Summit level canal in Loiret, France
The Briare Canal is a 54-kilometer waterway in the Loiret region that links the Seine and Loire river systems. It features 36 locks and maintains an operational water depth of 2.20 meters.
Construction began in 1605 under King Henry IV and took until 1642 to complete with a large workforce. Dutch hydraulic engineers played a key role in solving the technical challenges throughout the project.
The waterway connects two major river basins and has served as a trade route linking France's northern and southern regions for centuries. Today, travelers use it for boating and enjoy the countryside that lines its course.
Boats can navigate between Montargis and Briare, with rental services available at multiple locations along the route. Visitors should expect that passing through the locks takes time and should plan their journey accordingly.
At Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses, seven consecutive locks work together to overcome a 24-meter elevation change. This unusual arrangement demonstrates the innovative engineering solutions that were created to handle the landscape's challenges.
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