The Paris Catacombs

The Paris Catacombs are an extensive underground ossuary located beneath Paris, France. They were established in the late 18th century to address overcrowded cemeteries. About six million human remains were transferred to these catacombs, which feature artistic arrangements of skulls and bones. The tunnels stretch for over 200 miles, though only a small portion is accessible to the public. Today, the Catacombs serve as a historical site, drawing visitors interested in their unique macabre beauty and the city’s history. They reflect both the cultural attitudes toward death and the practical challenges of urban life in Paris.