Europe Explored » City of Light https://europeexplored.com Travel through the most beautiful places in Europe Sun, 08 Sep 2013 13:36:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=3.6 The Catacombs of Paris: Experience a Different Side to the City of Light https://europeexplored.com/2013/06/12/the-catacombs-of-paris-experience-a-different-side-to-the-city-of-light/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/06/12/the-catacombs-of-paris-experience-a-different-side-to-the-city-of-light/#comments Wed, 12 Jun 2013 13:58:18 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=15039 When people think of Paris, they typically think of it as a romantic city with the world renowned Eiffel Tower. However, just like with most places, there is more to Paris than what meets the eye. In fact, if you really want to experience a different side to the City of Light, you need to […]

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]]> When people think of Paris, they typically think of it as a romantic city with the world renowned Eiffel Tower. However, just like with most places, there is more to Paris than what meets the eye. In fact, if you really want to experience a different side to the City of Light, you need to discover the Catacombs of Paris.

Where Are the Catacombs of Paris Located?

The Catacombs are located beneath the great city of Paris in France. The ossuary is located approximately 20 meters below ground and houses the remains of 6 to 7 million Parisians. The remains were gradually transferred to the ossuary between the 18th and 19th century due to graveyards being closed because of the risk they posed to public health.

Catacombs of Paris, France
Catacombs of Paris, France by Djtox

Notable Deceased Historical Figures

Within the Catacombs, there are many notable deceased historical figures due to the transfer of remains from various churches and graveyards. Such names include François Rabelais, Charles Perrault, Jean de La Fontaine, Simon Vouet, François Girardon, Salomon de Brosse, Jules Hardouin-Mansart, and Claude Perrault.

People that have died during the Revolution were also buried in the Catacombs, including victims of the 1792 massacres. Victims of the guillotine were additionally buried in the Catacombs, including Lavoisier, Camille and Lucile Desmoulins, Madame Elisabeth, Robespierre, and Danton.

Passages at the Catacombes, Paris, France
Passages at the Catacombes, Paris, France by Oh Paris

Available Tours

Visitors can enjoy a 45-minute tour of the Catacombs spanning over 2 kilometers (1.2 miles). Visitors should dress accordingly since the average temperature is 14˚ Celsius (57.2˚ Fahrenheit). Along with the total distance traveled, visitors will also need to prepare for walking 213 steps during the tour.

The tour is available daily (except for Mondays and public holidays) from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The price of admission varies depending on if you choose full rate, concessions rate, or half rate. In order to enjoy half rates or concessions rates, you will need to have a valid piece of identification with you. Additionally, you may be able to receive group rates.

If you want to be at the Catacombs entrance bright and early for the tour, you can look into nearby Paris hotels to spend the night. If you want to discover the best rates and services, you will need to comparison shop beforehand.

Sculpture Chiselled in the Catacombes, Paris, France
Sculpture Chiselled in the Catacombes, Paris, France by Oh Paris

Conditions and Accessibility for the Tour

When taking the tour, you may experience short delays during busy times since the visitor number is restricted to 200. It should additionally be known that cloakroom and bathroom facilities are not available on site.

The tour is not suitable for families with young children or people with respiratory or heart problems. Additionally, people with reduced mobility will not be able to access the site. Children under the age of 14 will need an adult present in order to go on the tour.

If you want to explore more about Paris’ history, the Catacombs of Paris is a great place to start. However, you will just need to plan ahead and make sure that you do not have any major health concerns in order to enjoy it to the fullest.

Chris McMahon enjoys sharing his travel stories online. He has a particular love for the lesser known gem in popular destinations.

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