The Paris Catacombs: A Journey into the City’s Undergrowth

Created at the end of the 18th century, the Paris Catacombs hold the remains of approximately six million Parisians, whose bones were transferred from overcrowded cemeteries deemed unhygienic. The public area—only a small portion of the vast catacombs complex—consists of about two kilometers (1.2 miles) of narrow corridors carved from limestone quarries deep underground. This hauntingly fascinating site offers visitors a morbid spectacle of millions of human bones and skulls arranged in intricate and symmetrical patterns.

Moreover, the ossuaries reflect the high value of artistic expression in French culture; several chambers are adorned with sculptures and philosophical poems about life and death, inviting contemplation as you navigate through the galleries. Hence, whether you are intrigued by the archaeological and historical significance or are seeking a unique underground adventure, a visit to the catacombs is certainly worthwhile. However, be aware that it may not be a suitable excursion for young children or those with mobility issues due to the requirement of descending 130 spiral staircase steps and climbing back up 83 steps upon exiting. The typical visit lasts around 45 minutes.

Location and Contact Information

The Catacombs are situated in Paris’ 14th arrondissement, close to the historic Montparnasse neighborhood that flourished with artists and writers like Henry Miller and Tamara de Lempicka during the 1920s and 1930s.

Address:
1, avenue Colonel Henri Roi-Tanguy, 14th arrondissement
Metro/RER: Denfert-Rochereau (Metro lines 4, 6 or RER Line B)
Tel: +33(0)1 43 22 47 63
Fax: +33 (0)1 42 18 56 52
Visit the official website

Opening Hours, Tickets, and Other Practical Details

The Catacombs now offer early evening visits, catering to those who find the attraction particularly fitting for nighttime exploration. They are open every day except Monday, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, with the last admission at 7:00 pm. Due to substantial space limitations, the number of visitors is restricted to 200 at a time; therefore, arriving well before 7:00 pm is advisable to avoid disappointment.

Tickets: Individual tickets are available for purchase at the green ticket booth outside the entrance, accepting cash, Visa, and Mastercard. For group reservations (minimum of ten people, maximum of 20), it is recommended to call ahead at the Cultural Services office of the Carnavalet Museum: +33 (0)1 44 59 58 31. Group visits are conducted only on Monday through Friday mornings.

Restrictions and Advisories

• Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Visits are discouraged for individuals with cardiac, respiratory, or anxiety disorders. Additionally, the catacombs lack elevators, making them inaccessible for those with physical disabilities.
• No restrooms or cloakrooms are available within the catacombs.
• The tunnels tend to be quite chilly; bringing warm clothing during fall and winter is recommended.

Sights and Attractions to Explore Nearby

• Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain (contemporary arts museum)
• Cite Internationale
• Montparnasse Tower (for spectacular panoramic views of Paris)
• Parc Montsouris (romantic-style park)
• Butte aux Cailles Neighborhood

History and Visit Highlights

In the late eighteenth century, a cemetery near the market district known as “Les Halles” and the Saint-Eustache church was declared unhygienic and detrimental to public health. The exhumation of bones from the “Innocents” Cemetery, which had been in use for ten centuries and was exceedingly overcrowded, commenced in 1786 and lasted until 1788. The quarries that now house the catacombs were hollowed out, and the exhumed bones were moved there following religious ceremonies conducted by priests. After receiving a blessing, the bones were transported in tipcarts draped in black veils.

Following extensive renovations, the Catacombs reopened to the public in 2005.

Visit Highlights: Going Down, Down…

As you descend the long spiral staircase and enter the maze of the Catacombs, you might feel a bit disoriented from the spiraling descent. The first thing that catches your attention is the very low ceilings; therefore, if you are claustrophobic, be prepared. Initially, for the first three or four minutes, you will walk through empty corridors devoid of bones. Once you reach the ossuaries, brace yourself for the incredible sight of monumental heaps of bones, artistically arranged along each side, accompanied by poems reflecting on mortality (in French). While some may find this experience unsettling, others will likely find it fascinating—it is an encounter that is hard to forget.

The recently re-opened “Port Mahon” gallery features several sculptures created by a quarryman, who crafted a representation of the Port-Mahon fortress in Menorca, where he was imprisoned by the English army during a war for Louis XV. This adds yet another layer of intrigue to this unique underground environment.

What About the “Other”, “Unofficial” Catacombs? Can I Visit Those?

In short, it is illegal and strongly discouraged. There are indeed ways to access the “unofficial” catacombs; resources like this one offer captivating visual insights into a subterranean Paris that has attracted a diverse group of enthusiasts, noted as “cataphiles.” However, attempting to venture into these areas poses significant dangers on various fronts.