Discovering the Depths: A Guide to the Paris Catacombs
Beneath the streets of Paris lies a hidden world that tells a tale of the city's past— the Paris Catacombs. This subterranean ossuary holds the remains of over six million Parisians, a macabre yet fascinating reminder of the city's history.
The story of the Catacombs begins in the late 18th century. Paris faced a severe public health crisis as its cemeteries became overcrowded, leading to contamination of the surrounding areas. To address this, the authorities decided to transfer the bones to an underground location. They chose the abandoned Tombe-Issoire quarries, which had been in operation since the 15th century, located outside the city limits at the time.
The task of preparing the site and organizing the transfer of remains was given to Charles Axel Guillaumot, the inspector of the Department of General Quarry Inspection. This department was established by Louis XVI in 1777 to consolidate abandoned quarries after several significant ground collapses in Paris. From 1785 to 1787, the bones from the Saints-Innocents cemetery, Paris's largest and oldest, were transferred at night to avoid public outcry. The remains were dumped into quarry wells and then arranged in the galleries by quarry workers. This process continued until 1814, and resumed during the urban renovations of the mid-19th century.
The site was consecrated as the "Paris Municipal Ossuary" on April 7, 1786, and soon became known as the Catacombs, a nod to the Roman catacombs that had captivated the public imagination. By 1809, the Catacombs were opened to the public by appointment, becoming a popular attraction for both locals and foreigners.
Visiting the Catacombs: What to Expect
Today, the Paris Catacombs are one of the city's most unique and haunting attractions, drawing nearly 550,000 visitors annually. Located in the Montparnasse district, the entrance is an unassuming building that belies the labyrinthine world below.
Tour Highlights:
The Ossuary: As you descend into the catacombs, you'll encounter the carefully arranged bones of millions of Parisians. The walls are lined with rows of skulls and femurs, creating a chilling yet mesmerizing display.
Historical Markers: Throughout the catacombs, plaques and markers provide historical context, including the original quarries and the significant events that led to their transformation into an ossuary.
Famous Visitors: The Catacombs have been visited by many notable figures, including Napoleon III and the future Charles X. Their visits are commemorated within the tunnels.
Tips for Visiting the Catacombs
1. Plan Ahead: The Catacombs are popular, and lines can be long. It's best to purchase tickets in advance online to secure a spot.
2. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The tour involves a lot of walking and descending steep staircases. Make sure to wear comfortable, sturdy footwear.
3. Prepare for the Climate: The catacombs are cool and damp, with temperatures around 14°C (57°F). Bring a light jacket or sweater.
4. Follow the Rules: For preservation and safety, visitors are required to stay on the designated paths. Flash photography is not allowed, and touching the bones is strictly prohibited.
5. Explore the Surroundings: The catacombs are located near other attractions in the Montparnasse area, including the Montparnasse Tower and several charming cafés and shops.
Practical Information
Location: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris, France Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM (last admission at 7:30 PM) Admission: Standard tickets are €29 for adults, with reduced rates for youths, children, and seniors.
The Paris Catacombs offer a unique glimpse into the city's history and a solemn reminder of the lives that once thrived above ground. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking an unusual adventure, a visit to this underground ossuary is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
