Catacombs of Paris

Word from curator

Catherine

Paris expert

20+ destinations visited

18 curated trips

The Catacombs of Paris (Municipal Ossuary) offer a unique and somewhat eerie experience beneath the city's streets. Established in the late 18th century in response to public health concerns over Paris's overflowing cemeteries, the catacombs hold the remains of millions of Parisians, transferred here over several decades.

The catacombs consist of a vast network of underground tunnels and rooms, stretching over 300 kilometers, though only a small portion is open to the public.

Originally part of the city's stone mines, these tunnels were converted into an ossuary in the late 1700s to alleviate overcrowding in Parisian cemeteries.

The walls of the ossuary are lined with the bones and skulls of the deceased, arranged in a macabre display that is both solemn and thought-provoking.

Due to the limited number of people allowed inside at one time, it's advisable to purchase tickets in advance, as wait times can be long, especially during tourist season.

A visit to the Catacombs of Paris is a journey into a different, often overlooked part of the city's history. It offers a profound perspective on the city’s past and the inevitability of mortality, making it a unique experience.