The Paris Catacombs

About

The Paris Catacombs form a vast underground ossuary that stretches over 1,500 m beneath the city, housing the remains of more than six million Parisians. Originally built to alleviate overcrowded cemeteries in the late 18th century, the tunnels have evolved into a macabre museum where skulls, ribs, and funerary objects are arranged in sculptural galleries. Visitors can experience the unique architectural layout while learning about the site's history, the geological background of the limestone quarries, and the cultural significance of the ossuary. Guided and thematic tours—including literary, imperial, and theatrical experiences—add depth to the exploration, while a free passage is available for those wishing to see the stones at their own pace. With daily hours from 9:45 am to 8:30 pm and a visitor limit of 200 per day, the Catacombs offer a deeply immersive journey into Paris’s hidden past.

Highlights

• Subterranean Museum
• Historic Architecture
• Geological Treasure
• The Tonneau Collection
• Sarcophagus du Lacrymatoire

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

Pros & Cons

What people are saying

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour

Tickets & pricing