Forget about paying vast sums for bottled water: A survey conducted by the City of Paris in 2006 reveals that a majority of Parisians think water straight from the tap is just fine. In fact more than half of Parisians drink this water and 81 percent of these everyday users are satisfied with its quality, pressure, clarity, and freshness.

Such tidbits of knowledge are revealed at the Pavillon de l’eau, a new exhibition space that opened last June and is dedicated to water—Parisian and worldwide. Data-thirsty visitors can get information about the city’s water treatment and sources, about the vast delivery system that carries drinkable water to homes, businesses, and industries, about their bill… They can also access information about the preservation of this natural resource, which is becoming the socio-political issue of the future.

Appropriately located by the Seine in the 16th arrondissement, the Pavillon is housed in an elegant red brick municipal pumping station that was built in the late 19th century as part of the historic expansion of the Paris water supply network. The restored structure contains three vast levels filled with natural light, immaculate white volumes and sleek glass walls and handrails.

There are a conference hall, two meeting rooms, and a library containing books, articles, and reports about water in Paris and around the world, both historic and recent. The current show in the exhibition space, “Les métiers de l’eau d’hier à aujourd’hui,” focuses on professions related to water (until December).

Pavillon de l’eau. Closed on Monday.
Special events for parents and children on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
77, avenue de Versailles, Paris 16. M° Mirabeau. RER Javel. 01 42 24 54 02. www.pavilliondeleau.fr