Exploring the Paris Catacombs

If you’re looking for a spooky addition to your next Parisian adventure, venture underground and explore the Catacombs.

The Catacombs are old caves lined with human bones and skulls with most of faces pointed toward passersby. These Catacombs were originally quarries from which stone was taken to build the city.

© Dirk Wenzel | Dreamstime

Millions of Parisian bones can be found in the Catacombs, due to the closing of graveyards at the end of the 18th century. In 1786, the graveyard Les Innocents posed a threat to public health; after two years of hard work, all the bones were brought 20 meters below ground to the Catacombs. The last transfer of bones was in 1859 during the renovation of Paris, and was open to the public seven years later.

While exploring these artfully arranged bones, there are a number of quotes, poems and maxims on display for visitors to read during their journey. The first is on display above the entrance, “Arrête, c’est ici l’empire de la mort,” meaning “Halt, this is the realm of death.”

© Dirk Wenzel | Dreamstime

A few years ago, the Paris Catacombs closed briefly for some much-needed safety renovations and have been open for visitors since. You can visit daily, with the exception of Mondays, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Audio guides are available in French, English and Spanish for visitors who buy tickets online and wish to have a self-guided tour.