As an odd reminiscence, all across Europe stand vestiges of its Industrial Revolution. During the 18th century, as population kept on increasing, new techniques were developed to produce more, faster and at a lower cost. This wave of radical changes culminated in the development of railways, which gave a strong impulse to the entire economy by reducing distances. One of greatest vestiges – however unknown – of the Industrial Revolution lies in Paris. La Petite Ceinture is a dormant railroad track, a 32km path surrounding the city of light. Its construction, seen as an invitation to progress, was decided in 1852 by Napoleon III. Traffic reached its apogee with the Universal Exhibition featuring the Eiffel Tower in 1901. However, its operation wouldn’t survive the automobile revolution, nor the advent of the underground system. Indeed, urban passenger service discontinued from 1934. Oddly enough, it hasn’t gone to wrack and ruin as the infrastructure has been maintained in condition. As a river, its shores constantly change over time, but it persists. Grasses, flowers and small trees sprout from its bed. The vestige has become a boundary on the fringe of society. An intimate place, where past and modernity make their acquaintance.

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