History of the Paris Catacombs and Tips for Visiting
The Origins of the Paris Catacombs
The Paris Catacombs (underground ossuary) are a maze of underground limestone tunnels, caves, and quarries that stretch for over 150 miles beneath the City of Light. Located in Place Denfert Rochereau, on the Left Bank, the Paris catacombs are also one of the world’s largest. They hold the remains of some 6 million former souls.
In the late 1700’s Paris cemeteries were becoming overcrowded. This was causing health issues throughout the city. To remedy this, the decision was made to relocate the remains of millions of Parisians to an underground ossuary.
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Relocation
In 1785 the Cemetery of the Innocents was the first to be evacuated. It would take twelve years to completely transfer all 6 million remains. The task had to be completed at night, for fear of upsetting the Parisians and the Church.
On April 7, 1786 the Catacombs were officially named the Paris Municipal Ossuary. The name “Catacombs” is a reference to the ancient Roman burial sites built with passageways.
Open to the Public
Before the opening in 1809, Inspector Hericart de Thury carefully rearranged the remains in the catacombs as you see today. Previously, the bones had been placed in piles throughout the tunnels. As you can see from the photos, some are artistically arranged in hearts and other carefully thought out designs. A small section of the ossuary opened to the public by appointment only. This drew many people to visit, including French Nobility, the Emperor of Austria, and even Napoleon III. Fun Fact: During WWII, the Resistance held their secret meetings in the Catacombs to plot against the Germans.
Paris Catacombs Today
Today, only about one mile of the underground tunnels are open to the public. Over half a million people visit each year. It is 131 steps down, about 5 stories, and 112 steps to get back up.
Whether drawn to its historical significance or intrigued by the macabre, a visit to the Catacombs is a must on your Paris to do list. As you walk through the catacombs you can’t help but think about the millions of people and what their lives must have been like. The number of remains is overwhelming. It really puts things in perspective.
Planning Your Visit to the Paris Catacombs
We were not able to see the catacombs on our first visit to Paris as there was a worker strike. This is a very popular tourist attraction. Make your reservations a week in advance. Tickets are 29 euros for adults and 10 euros for children. Make your reservations online at https://www.catacombes.paris.fr/en. It is cool down there so bring a light sweater if you get cold easily. It is also very humid. The floor can be slippery so wear good walking shoes.
Remember, it is 131 steps down, about 5 stories, and 112 steps to get back up. Please read about accessibility on the website. Unfortunately, there is no wheelchair accessibility. I have asthma and I was able to climb the stairs, but I did have to stop several times. Make sure to have your inhaler.
For more on other museums in Paris visit A Guide To Paris Museums – From Dior To The Louvre or check out my entire Paris series to help make the most of your trip.