Beneath the charming streets and iconic landmarks of Paris lies a hidden, eerie underworld known as the Paris Catacombs. This macabre subterranean labyrinth offers visitors a chilling glimpse into the city’s history. For those intrigued by the darker side of life (and death), the Catacombs are a must-see attraction that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
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The Origins of the Paris Catacombs
The history of the Paris Catacombs dates back to the late 18th century when Paris faced severe public health issues caused by overcrowded cemeteries. Saints-Innocents Cemetery, the largest in the city, had been in use for nearly ten centuries but was closed in 1780 after reaching critical capacity. The cemetery’s decomposition led to the contamination of water supplies and unbearable odors, forcing city authorities to act.
The solution was to transfer the remains to the Tombe-Issoire quarries, located outside the city at the time, beneath the Montrouge plain. These quarries, part of a vast network of tunnels, had been used since the 15th century. Under the direction of the Department of General Quarry Inspection, the quarries were reinforced and prepared to store the bones.
Between 1785 and 1787, remains from Saints-Innocents were transferred to the quarries, mostly at night to avoid public and Church protests. The site was consecrated as the Paris Municipal Ossuary on April 7, 1786, and later became known as the ‘Catacombs,’ inspired by the Roman catacombs.
The relocation of bones continued beyond the French Revolution, through to 1814, including those from other prominent Parisian cemeteries such as Saint-Eustache and Saint-Nicolas-des-Champs. Additional remains were moved during Louis-Philippe’s urban renovations in the 1840s and under Haussmann in the 1850s and 1860s.
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What to Expect on Your Visit
A visit to the Paris Catacombs is a unique and eerie experience. The entrance is located at 1, Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy in the 14th arrondissement, with the exit at 21 bis, Avenue René-Coty. Visitors descend 131 steps into the underground tunnels, approximately 20 meters (65 feet) below the surface.
Standard tours of the Catacombs cover a 1.5-kilometer (about 1 mile) one-way circuit and take approximately 45 minutes. However, some extended tours last up to 2 hours and include special access to parts of the Catacombs that are closed to the general public, covering a longer route and providing a more in-depth experience.
The temperature inside remains a cool 14°C (57°F) year-round, so it’s advisable to dress warmly. The passageways are narrow and dimly lit, with uneven and sometimes slippery floors, adding to the mysterious atmosphere. Comfortable shoes are a must, and caution is advised while navigating the tunnels. After exploring, visitors ascend 112 steps back to the surface.
The Catacombs house the remains of over six million people, neatly arranged in piles along the walls of the labyrinth-like tunnels. Visitors can choose between an audio guide or a guided tour to learn more about the history of the Catacombs, its role in addressing Paris’s cemetery crisis, and the fascinating stories behind the site.
The Haunting Legacy of the Paris Catacombs
Since opening to the public by appointment in 1809, the Paris Catacombs have attracted notable visitors, including Napoleon III and his son, as well as Francis I, the Austrian emperor. The Catacombs’ haunting atmosphere has inspired urban legends and ghost stories, cementing their place in both French history and popular culture.
One macabre detail from history is the story of how some remains from Saints-Innocents were so decomposed that they became large deposits of fat, known as “corpse wax.” This fat was repurposed to make soap and candles, a grim but practical use during the 18th century.
Tips for Visiting the Paris Catacombs
Here are some tips to enhance your visit to the Paris Catacombs:
- Book ahead: Due to its popularity and a limit of 200 visitors at a time, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance.
- Dress appropriately: Bring a jacket as the temperature is consistently cool underground.
- Wear sturdy shoes: The floors can be uneven and slippery, so comfortable footwear is essential.
- Health considerations: Be mindful, as the environment can feel confining for some.
A visit to the Paris Catacombs offers a rare and haunting glimpse into the French capital’s past. As you walk through the tunnels lined with millions of bones, you’ll uncover a part of Paris history that few get to experience. Whether you’re fascinated by the macabre or curious about this unique site, the Catacombs promise an unforgettable journey beneath the City of Lights.