The Catacombs of Paris

The Catacombs of Paris are an extensive network of underground tunnels and chambers beneath the city, originally limestone quarries. In the late 18th century, when Paris’s cemeteries became overcrowded, bones were transferred here to address health concerns. Today, the catacombs serve as a macabre historical site, containing the remains of approximately six million people arranged artistically along the walls. They offer a glimpse into Paris’s past, showcasing the city’s geology, medieval history, and evolving urban landscape. Accessible to visitors, the catacombs are a unique, haunting reminder of Paris's layered history beneath its vibrant surface.