If you truly want to explore a fascinating chapter of Paris’s history, visiting its catacombs is a must. When you think of “Paris,” the Eiffel Tower probably comes to mind right away. Before your visit, you’ll likely look through guides and websites to decide which attractions are most worth your time.
However, there are always lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations that aren’t highlighted as often in guidebooks. One such example is the Paris Catacombs. If you’re intrigued and eager to explore, you’re in luck, as the catacombs aren’t typically overrun by tourists.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to this unique attraction, highlighting the history, features, curiosities, and everything you need to know before visiting the Paris Catacombs.
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History of the Paris Catacombs
Understanding their dark and mysterious history is crucial to fully appreciating the significance of this place. The Paris Catacombs form an underground labyrinth in an area rich in limestone, created from marine sediments over 40 million years ago. It all began with the founding of Lutetia in 52 BC.
During Roman times, the area was used as a limestone quarry. By the 13th century, parts of the quarry had moved underground, driven by the need for construction materials for the growing city, including landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
In the 18th century, the Paris quarries were repurposed into catacombs. This shift was prompted by a health crisis, as the overflowing Cemetery of the Innocents posed a serious threat to public health. Over the course of two years, the remains from this cemetery were transferred into the catacombs. The sheer number of corpses and the unhygienic conditions in which they were managed contributed to disease outbreaks in the city.
The first human remains were officially moved to the Paris Catacombs on August 28 and 29, 1788, from the Saint Nicolas Cemetery.
Nearly a century later, the Paris Commune used the catacombs as a place to execute royalist sympathizers, hoping to bring about political change. During World War II, the French Resistance and German forces both utilized the catacombs. The Germans even established a bunker beneath the Lycée Montaigne, a secondary school.
The bones in the Paris Catacombs are arranged in walls and stacks to maximize space, with inscriptions marking their origins. Visitors will also find altars and Latin inscriptions throughout the tunnels.
Features and Curiosities of the Paris Catacombs
- The remains of 6 to 7 million people are housed in this underground cemetery.
- The catacombs span a surface area of 11,000 square meters and are located 20 meters below ground, requiring a descent of 130 steps to access the tunnels.
- The guided tour covers 2 kilometers of the catacombs, compared to the over 300 kilometers of total tunnel length.
- One of the most intriguing aspects is the arrangement of bones, which form walls and patterns made of skulls and bones.
- In addition to the bone walls, visitors can see sculptures, Latin and French inscriptions, and names of the passages along with philosophical and religious quotes.
Notable Figures Buried in the Catacombs
Curious about whether any famous historical figures are among those buried here? Indeed, the catacombs contain the remains of:
- Jean de La Fontaine, the renowned fabulist.
- Charles Perrault, the author of classic children’s tales, including “Little Red Riding Hood.”
- Antoine Lavoisier, the father of modern chemistry.
- Maximilien de Robespierre, a key figure of the French Revolution.
How to Visit the Catacombs
The Paris Catacombs are one of the city’s most popular and eerie attractions. Indeed, they are among the oldest cemeteries still in existence today, a place that draws visitors due to its haunting yet historical allure.
It’s natural to feel a chill when thinking about cemeteries, as they are places where countless bodies once full of life, feelings, dreams, and experiences now rest. Entering the catacombs, which remain one of the most well-preserved ancient burial sites, will give you the sense of stepping into another realm or time—an era dominated by shadows, where natural light feels like a distant memory.
And that is the essence of the experience. Light is almost nonexistent in these tunnels, apart from artificial illumination. But this darkness brings with it a mystical, mysterious atmosphere, full of secrets and stories that can only be felt in this exceptional place in the City of Light.
How to Visit the Catacombs?
The entrance to the Catacombs is located on Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, with the exit on Rue Rémy Dumoncel, both in Paris’s 14th arrondissement. However, given the vast expanse of this underground maze, there are many hidden and unofficial entrances scattered throughout the city.
Out of the 300 km of catacombs beneath Paris, only 1.5 km are open to the public. One reason for this restricted access is to prevent unsanctioned activities, such as black masses, which authorities have actively worked to curb.
Navigating these tunnels can be complicated, making a guided tour essential. In fact, since 1955, it has been illegal to enter the catacombs without a guide. Still, some areas can be accessed via old sewers and hidden points, though these entrances are unofficial and risky.
Precautions to Consider Before Visiting the Catacombs
Be sure to read these essential safety tips if you plan to venture into the Paris Catacombs.
- There are no restrooms or cloakrooms for storing clothing or luggage along the 2 km route open to the public.
- Entry and exit are only possible via stairs, making the site unsuitable for people with limited mobility. Be cautious, as the steps are narrow, slippery, and dimly lit.
- Touching the exposed bones is strictly prohibited.
- Blind or visually impaired visitors are allowed entry with a companion. Guide dogs are permitted, but white canes are not.
- It’s not recommended for young children, pregnant women, people who are claustrophobic, those with anxiety disorders, or individuals with heart or respiratory issues.
- Occasionally, guided tours in sign language are available at a reduced price.
We hope these guidelines help you prepare for your visit to the Paris Catacombs. It’s a highly recommended experience that reveals the hidden secrets beneath the City of Love.
What to See in the Paris Catacombs
1. The Catacombs Entrance
The main entrance is at Place Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th district. It’s a small, unassuming building that could easily go unnoticed if not for the signs and lines of tourists waiting to get in. Originally a 19th-century tollhouse, this building has been adapted to serve as the entrance to the ossuary.
You’ll start your visit with a security check and an information desk where you can ask questions. From there, you’ll descend 130 steps via a spiral staircase into this subterranean world (note: it’s not accessible for people with limited mobility).
As you descend, natural light gradually fades, giving way to the Catacombs’ dim, cool, and eerie atmosphere.
2. The Quarry Passage
At the bottom of the stairs, you’ll find yourself in a long tunnel that immerses you in the dark and damp environment of the Catacombs. The limestone walls and slightly slippery floor make sturdy footwear a must.
This initial section gives you a sense of the vast, labyrinthine network that forms the Catacombs, a place of deep silence where the only sounds are your footsteps and the murmurs of fellow visitors.
Along this passage, you’ll encounter informational signs that explain the history and significance of this eerie site.
3. The Ossuary
The ossuary (the section where the bones are arranged) is the most striking part of the Catacombs. Here, you’ll see carefully stacked bones and skulls, with many corridors featuring inscriptions and philosophical musings about life and death.
The ossuary features three notable sections:
- The Rotunda of Tibias: A highlight for many visitors, with bones arranged in artistic patterns.
- The Barrel of Bones: A cylindrical structure made of skulls and tibias, extending from floor to ceiling.
- The Chapel of the Dead: A small altar nestled among the bones, used for commemorative ceremonies.
Visiting the Catacombs is a journey through history, mortality, and the mysteries hidden beneath Paris’s surface. Prepare for an unforgettable, haunting experience in this unique site.
4. The Commemorative Plaques
Lastly, while not a specific site, the commemorative plaques scattered throughout the Catacombs bear historical information about the area and philosophical reflections on mortality, inviting visitors to ponder deeply. Reading these inscriptions fosters a sense of reverence among tourists.
These plaques were installed in the 18th century and later as part of efforts to dignify and organize the ossuary. They also serve as orientation markers within the complex network of tunnels, helping visitors navigate the Paris Catacombs.
5. The Underground Museum
Near the exit, you’ll find a small museum where you can delve deeper into the history of the limestone quarries, the creation of the ossuary, and life in Paris during the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s a spot well worth exploring to better understand the sacred and historical nature of the Catacombs.
Hours, Tickets, and Prices
The guided visit lasts about 45 minutes and must be conducted with a professional guide. It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online well in advance to ensure your spot.
As for ticket pricing, it’s best to book a combo that includes a Seine River cruise, such as these options:
- Catacombs Entry and Seine River Cruise with Audio Guide
- Catacombs Access Ticket, Audio Guide, and River Cruise
Opening Hours
- Closed on Mondays
- Closed on public holidays
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Please note that access to the Catacombs is not included in the Paris Pass, but this pass is still a great option for exploring other attractions in the city.
How to Get to the Paris Catacombs
The Paris Catacombs are located in the 14th arrondissement, in a well-connected area accessible by various modes of transport:
Metro
The closest station is Denfert-Rochereau (lines 4 and 6). Once you exit the metro, the Catacombs’ entrance is just a few steps away.
RER (Suburban Train)
The Denfert-Rochereau station (line B) is also your stop. Directions from the surface are the same: just a short walk will get you to your destination.
Bus
Several bus lines stop near the Catacombs’ entrance, with lines 38 and 68 being the most convenient. Disembark at Denfert-Rochereau and walk a short distance to the entrance.
Now that you know the history of these haunting Paris Catacombs and understand the affordable pricing, it’s a must-visit if you’re in Paris and want to experience a deep sense of mysticism.