The Ultimate Guide to the River Marne and its Secrets

River Marne Geography and Route Through France

This French waterway is 514 kilometres long and begins in the Langres plateau. The river makes its way westward, joining the famous River Seine upstream of Paris. On its journey through the French countryside, the Marne passes through charming locations such as Meaux – renowned for its ‘Prince of Cheese’ brie – and the village of Jouarre, which houses a fascinating twelfth-century Benedictine abbey. Along with its centuries-old heritage, this region of France has an impressive wine-growing tradition.

Once a heavily navigated and free-flowing waterway, the River Marne is now only navigable for 178 kilometres, stretching from its confluence with the River Seine at Charenton to its junction with the Canal latéral à la Marne at Épernay.

River Marne Trade Route and Canal Network

In its prime, the Marne was a crucial transportation route, linking Paris and the Seine to key rivers to the east, including the Meuse, Moselle, and Rhine. To improve navigation along the river, several lateral canals were constructed. The most significant of these is the Canal latéral à la Marne, which spans 67 kilometres (42 miles) between Vitry-le-François and Dizy.

Other important canals built along the Marne include the Canal Cornillon, one of the oldest artificial waterways in France constructed in 1235, as well as the Canal de Chelles. and the Canal de Saint-Maurice which ends at Charenton-le-Pont, near the Marne’s confluence with the Seine.

Additionally, the Canal de l’Ourcq runs close to the Marne for a stretch before veering off toward Paris from the north. Historically, the Marne and the Ourcq were connected by a “tub boat” inclined plane near Meaux, further enhancing their role in regional transport.

River Marne and the Oldest Canal in France

The Oldest Canal in France?

The Canal de Cornillon in Meaux was built around 800 years ago at the beginning of the thirteenth century. This canal is the oldest in France and was constructed as a 500m short cut, by-passing a particularly generous meander of the river. In the nineteenth century the Marne became an important trade route, connecting Paris with eastern rivers, therefore many lateral canals were built to aid its navigation.

The most impressive canal is the 64-kilometre-long Canal latéral à la Marne, which tackles a height difference of over 30 metres with 15 locks.

River Marne Mythology and Legends

The River Marne has long held a significant place in both history and mythology. In ancient Gaul, the Celts worshipped a goddess named Dea Matrona, or the “divine mother goddess”, who was closely associated with the river.

Over the centuries, the Marne has been at the heart of many legends and superstitions, with one popular tale speaking of the “Marne’s spirit”—a mysterious presence believed to protect travellers and guide them safely along its winding course. Locals even believed that the river had a soul and that its waters held mystical properties, offering blessings of health and fortune.

River Marne History in World War One

The Marne’s historical importance was solidified during World War One, when it became the site of two major battles. The First Battle of the Marne in September 1914 marked a decisive turning point in the war, halting the German advance toward Paris.

Four years later, the Second Battle of the Marne, fought in late 1918, would become known as the last major German offensive on the Western Front. The Allies’ successful counterattack here played a crucial role in leading to the eventual Armistice.

River Marne Legacy and Cultural Significance

Today, while the river is still deeply tied to the region’s identity, its role in the folklore and the history of battle continues to shape its legacy. The Marne stands as a symbol of both the natural beauty of the Champagne region and its resilience through tumultuous times.

River Marne Champagne Highlights and Places to Visit

If you are fortunate enough to be cruising along the Marne onboard Kir Royale whilst in France, there are a few sites you shouldn’t miss. The countryside surrounding the river was of great importance in both the world wars. In fact, Château-Thierry – notable for several war cemeteries and memorials – was at the centre of the last German offensive of WW1. Visit the moving memorial in Belleau Wood, erected in honour of the 4th Marine Brigade of the U.S. Army’s 2nd Division. The remains of trenches and shell holes nearby serve as a visual reminder of the battles that took place in this area.

On a lighter note, you must visit the delightful town of Epernay – the capital of Champagne. The famous Avenue de Champagne is lined with impressive mansions and is home to the most prestigious wine producers in the region, if not the world. You’ll discover the likes of Moët et Chandon, Mercier, Veuve Clicquot, Pol Roger and de Castellane. As you wander around the town remember that over 200 miles of underground caves are beneath your feet. Stocked with some of the world’s most covetable bubbly, some of these cellars are open for tours, a wonderful introduction into the magic world of Champagne.

Plan Your River Marne Barge Holiday

Perhaps this glimpse into the culture and history of the River Marne has encouraged you to venture onto its waters for your next barge holiday in France. Join our hotel barge Kir Royale for the Champagne trip of a lifetime.

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