Catacombs of Paris

Paris the city of love? Not only. If you are one of those who like to scare themselves, come to visit the Paris catacombs.

The Catacombs of Paris form a huge labyrinth beneath the surface of Paris. Indeed, they are located twenty metres below ground. The ossuary was created in the galleries of the former quarries (which were used to build the capital) and contains the remains of millions of Parisians, who were transferred there between the late 18th and mid-19th centuries. At the time, cemeteries were being closed because of the risk they posed to public health (but don't worry you won't be ill if you visit the catacombs!).

In the long and dark galleries, you will see (of course) lots of bones but also messages to explain you when these bones were placed here. You will also see the tableau of death with bones placed in a macabre display and terrifying messages such as "Halt, this is the real of Death" above the ossuary's entrance meant to scare you.

Interesting information for your visit:
- Visitor numbers are restricted to 200 at any time.
- Distance covered during the visit: 1.5 km (around 0.93 mile).
- Duration of the tour: around 45 minutes.
- No toilets.
- Animals are forbidden.
- 130 steps to go down and 83 steps back up to street level (so it is not adapted to people with reduced mobility unfortunately).
- Temperature: around 14°C (57.2°F). That’s why I really recommend visiting the catacombs in the summer season to avoid heat!
- Children must be at least 10 years old to visit the catacombs and children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
- All bags are searched at the exit to be sure you did not steal any bone.

And obviously, I do not recommend visiting the catacombs on weekends and during the Halloween period (even if the atmosphere is perfect) in order to avoid the crowds.

By the way, did you know that the catacombs contain the remains of many famous names from previous centuries such as the remains of the writers Jean de La Fontaine or Charles Perrault? If you listen carefully you may hear their ghosts telling stories...

Last but not least: Maybe you heard of the catacombs' "forbidden part," which are basically gigantic quarries not open to the public but where some lunatics still go to feel like adventurers. If someone offers you to visit them I recommend you say no. It is dangerous and if the police catch you, you'll have a fine.
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