The Catacombs of Paris, known as the ‘Empire of the Dead,’ lie beneath the vibrant city streets of Paris and contain the bones of over six million Parisians, arranged in an architectural complex that is as creepy as it is beautiful.
Location and Communication System
With their entrance at 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, within the 14th arrondissement, The Catacombs are close to the Denfert-Rochereau metro station. Situated in the eastern part of Paris, the site is served by metro lines 4 & 6 and the RER line B. Once at Place de Clichy, it’s easy to access the site on foot. Paris’ excellent public transport connections make it possible for any tourist to visit this wonder without needing a car.
Structure and Depth
Take 131 stairs down and descend 65 feet (20 meters) below the city’s noise and lights, revealing 200 miles (300 km) of tunnels and corridors. Yet, most of these ancient quarries are still inaccessible, with a limited section open to tourists. As you walk through these corridors, you will see that the ossuary is very well preserved, built as a continuation of the building structure itself, with bones arranged in walls like bricks.
A Brief History of the Catacombs
The history of the Catacombs dates back to the late 18th century. Paris had too many burial grounds, which became a danger to the community as graves were bursting and emitting foul vapors, even affecting the water. To resolve this issue, the city moved the bones from these cemeteries into the quarries under Paris. From 1786, bones were removed from cemeteries like Les Innocents, and the tunnels became a final resting place.
Interestingly, the stones used to construct most of Paris’ iconic buildings came from these quarries, some of which date back to Roman times. This adds an extra layer of historical fascination to the Catacombs.
A Journey into the Empire of the Dead
As you enter the Catacombs, you are greeted by the inscription, “STOP! YOU ARE ENTERING THE EMPIRE OF DEATH.” From this point onward, you are surrounded by strictly lined bones, primarily skulls and femurs, arranged in artistic patterns by the bone workers of the early 19th century. The ossuary continues, with signs informing visitors from which cemeteries the bones were collected to complete this grim structure of Paris.
As you move further, the environment feels more oppressive, with each corner revealing the somber reality of the people interred here. The Catacombs are not just a burial site; they were intended to inspire reflection, reverence, and even a sense of fear, according to Héricart de Thury, who was responsible for transforming the ossuary into a museum.
The Catacombs’ Unique Beauty and Attractions
There is a distinct elegance in the intricate walls made of bones, known as hagues in the French tradition of construction. The eerie emptiness one feels when walking through these corridors adds to the experience. Another masterpiece in the Catacombs is the stone sculpture of the Fortress of Port-Mahon, crafted by Francois Decure, a former quarryman who was once imprisoned there.
Besides the endless corridors of bones, the Well of the Samaritan is worth mentioning. While no longer a working well, it symbolizes the importance of water in such a grim context. Other notable areas include the Crypt of the Passion, a vaulted, barrel-shaped artwork created using human skulls and tibias.
Frequently Searched Questions: Exploring Curiosities About the Catacombs
- How long does the tour take in the Paris Catacombs?
The public tour covers 1.5 kilometers and takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. - Are the Paris Catacombs haunted?
While there are no documented paranormal reports, the eerie atmosphere has led many to believe the Catacombs might be haunted. - Can you get lost in the Catacombs?
For regular visitors, getting lost is nearly impossible as the public sections are well marked. However, cataphiles—urban explorers—have ventured into the uncharted tunnels, and some have not returned. - Can I take photos in the Catacombs?
Photography is allowed, but flash photography is discouraged out of respect for the remains and to preserve the ambiance. - When are the Catacombs open to the public and how much does it cost?
The Catacombs are open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:45 AM to 8:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased online, with prices starting at €29.
Should You Visit the Paris Catacombs?
Absolutely! If you’re interested in history, mystery, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, the Catacombs of Paris offer a haunting yet captivating adventure. With their rich history and fascinating architecture, they remain one of Paris’ most unique attractions.
However, the experience isn’t for everyone. The displays of bones and skulls may be overwhelming, but for those intrigued by Paris’ mysterious past, the Catacombs are a must-see.
A Final Thought: Respect the Dead
As we ascend the 120 steps back to the surface, it’s important to reflect on the significance of the Catacombs. Beyond being a museum and tourist attraction, it is a vast cemetery, holding the remains of millions of individuals whose identities are lost to time. Nevertheless, the Catacombs remain an important testament to Paris’ history, symbolizing the city’s resilience and unbreakable spirit.
