Semi-Private Guided Tour in English
VIP Skip-the-Line Restricted Access Tour
About
Start time:
9:45 AMDuration:
1 hourLast admission:
7:30 PMSkip the Line
Fast Track
Max group size:
20Best times:
Morning, Late afternoon.Audio Guide:
French.Must-Dos
Descend into the depths of the catacombs and discover their fascinating history.
Admire the creative bone arrangements in this unique location.
Observe the inscriptions and ornaments on the walls of the catacombs.
Explore the different sections of the catacombs for a comprehensive experience.
Listen to the stories of the catacombs' history through live guides or audio guides.
Information
History of the Catacombs
The history of the Catacombs of Paris dates back to the 18th century when serious sanitation issues related to the city's cemeteries prompted the authorities to transfer their contents underground. The first evacuations took place between 1785 and 1787, relocating the bones from the Cemetery of the Holy Innocents to the former quarries of Tombe-Issoire. The site was consecrated as the "Municipal Ossuary of Paris" in 1786, henceforth adopting the iconic name "Catacombs."
Public Accessibility
From 1809 onwards, the Catacombs became accessible to the public by appointment. They quickly became a popular attraction, hosting distinguished visitors such as the Count of Artois and Napoleon III. Throughout the 19th century, the visitation arrangements varied, but they remained a place of fascination for both French and foreign visitors. Today, the Catacombs welcome nearly 550,000 visitors annually.
Key Figures
The Catacombs of Paris extend to a depth of 20 meters, with a visitor route spanning 1,500 meters in length. To access the site, visitors must climb 243 steps (131 at the entrance and 112 at the exit). The ossuary itself covers a total area of 11,000 square meters, equivalent to a 5-story building.
Geology and Quarries
The Catacombs are located in ancient limestone quarries dating back to the 15th century. The Lutetian limestone, used in the construction of Paris, has been extracted from these quarries since antiquity. These quarries, gradually abandoned, evolved into underground exploitation with galleries dug to extract the stone.
Architecture and Conservation
The entrance pavilions of the Catacombs, designed by architect Claude-Nicolas Ledoux, were erected during the reign of Louis XVI. These buildings, with their monumental facades, were classified as historical monuments in 1907. The ossuary itself was developed under the direction of Inspector Héricart de Thury to make it accessible to the public and to provide an educational experience.
The Ossuary and Its Transformations
The municipal ossuary of the Catacombs, organized in the form of bone walls, was arranged for public viewing in 1809. Under the supervision of Inspector Héricart de Thury, the ossuary was decorated in a monumental and educational manner, with masonry monuments and cabinets dedicated to mineralogy and pathology. Today, research on the preservation of bones and the underground environment continues to preserve this unique heritage.
Tips
- Wear comfortable and appropriate shoes for walking in sometimes narrow passages.
- Bring a jacket or sweater as the temperature in the catacombs is cooler than on the surface.
- Book your tickets in advance as visit slots can fill up quickly.
- Remember that photos are allowed but without flash.
- Always follow the instructions of guides and staff to ensure your safety.
Guidelines
- Respect the site and do not touch the bones or walls of the catacombs.
- Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult to visit the catacombs.
- Avoid straying from the group during the tour for safety reasons.
- Turn off your mobile phone or switch it to silent mode during the visit.
- Do not leave any trash or personal items in the catacombs.
- Do not use flash when taking photos to preserve the atmosphere of the site.
- No food or drink is allowed inside the catacombs for preservation reasons.
- Large suitcases and bags are prohibited in the catacombs. Only small bags (40 x 30 cm) are accepted.
- Follow instructions carefully in case of emergency evacuation.
When to visit
Enjoy the morning hours to avoid crowds and have a more immersive experience.
Opening Hours
Special Days
Closed every Monday and on certain public holidays: January 1st, May 1st, and December 25th.
The Catacombs are open on Ascension Thursday, as well as on July 14th, August 15th, November 1st, and November 11th.
How to Get There
Metro
Lines 4 and 6, station 'Denfert-Rochereau'.
Train
RER B, station 'Denfert-Rochereau'.
Bus
Bus lines 38, 68, 88, and N14 also serve the 'Denfert-Rochereau' stop.
Car
Paid parking available at 83 Boulevard Saint-Jacques, 75014 Paris.
