Shuttle transfer from Charles de Gaulle airport to Catacombes in Paris

History and visit the Catacombs in Paris

Nestled deep beneath the streets of the 14th arrondissement, on Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, the Paris Catacombs present a somber yet fascinating aspect of the city’s history. Originally part of extensive underground limestone quarries, these catacombs were converted into an ossuary in the late 18th century, officially opening to the public in 1810. As one of Paris’s most unique museums, they offer a stark contrast to the above-ground beauty of the city, holding the remains of millions transferred from overcrowded cemeteries to address public health concerns. Dubbed ‘catacombs’ in reference to the Roman custom, this subterranean network extends over 1.7 km, covering 11,000 square meters, some twenty meters below the city. Primarily, the bones were moved from the Cemetery of the Innocents in a massive undertaking from 1786 to 1788, due to its detrimental impact on the local population’s health. The operation was carried out under the cover of night, marked by solemn ceremonies led by priests. Subsequent transfers from other burial grounds continued until 1814. The catacombs’ corridors, running 2 kilometers long and standing 1.80 meters high beneath arches, are accessed via 130 descending steps and exited by climbing 83 steps. Within this chilly domain, where temperatures hover around 14°C, visitors delve into the depths of Parisian history. However, due to its confined spaces and the nature of the site, it is advised that those with heart or respiratory conditions, young children, and those of a sensitive disposition abstain from visiting. Annually, approximately 300,000 explorers brave this journey into the past.