Activity
Activities
Tour
Tours

What to See in Catacombs Paris?

1. Port-Mahon Corridor
2. Crypt of the Sepulchral Lamp
3. Samaritan Fountain
4. Quarryman’s Footbath
5. The Barrel
6. Decorative Skull Arrangements
7. Molière and La Fontaine’s Tombs
8. Bone Arrangements
9. Historical Placards
10. Secret Passages

Step into an underground world steeped in history and mystery at the Catacombs of Paris. A visit to this fascinating site promises a spine-tingling adventure filled with hidden secrets from the past. Prepare yourself to explore the captivating features of the Paris Catacombs. The story of the Catacombs begins in the late 18th century, when overcrowded cemeteries led to the transformation of limestone quarries into an ossuary. As you navigate the dimly lit tunnels, you'll encounter walls lined with bones, meticulously arranged in intricate patterns.

One of the most striking features is the Mur des Os, or Wall of Bones. Here, actual skulls and bones are expertly stacked, creating a hauntingly beautiful display. The Section d'Exposition offers an opportunity to delve into the fascinating history and purpose of this underground cemetery. For those visiting Paris with a desire to explore its darker side, the Catacombs are an essential addition to your itinerary. This journey through history and artistry will leave a lasting impression, blending intrigue with uninrgettable experiences.

Here are some of the best things to see at Paris Catacombs:

Image description
Bigger Group? Get special offers upto 50% off!
We create unforgettable adventures, customised for your group.
Connect with a group tour expert
Full Name
Email
Phone number
Travel Date
Traveller Count
Message
Paris Attraction Tickets Explore All (145)
Explore All (145)
01

Port-Mahon Corridor

If wondering what to see in the Paris Catacombs, don’t miss the interesting Port-Mahon Corridor. Named after the impressive sculpture of the Port-Mahon fort by artist Décure, this section showcases remarkable artistic interpretations of historical sites.

The corridor features carvings of the Port-Mahon fort, Port Philippe, and the Quartier de Kazerne by Décure. His sculptures, while not entirely accurate, offer a glimpse into his imagination and artistry.

Book Now: Catacombs of Paris tickets
02

Crypt of the Sepulchral Lamp

The Crypt of the Sepulchral Lamp is a highlight in the Paris Catacombs. As one of the earliest monuments built within the catacombs, it sits in the Place de Saint-Laurent, where bones from the Saint-Laurent Cemetery were meticulously arranged. Originally, the Sepulchral Lamp served a practical purpose, providing light and ventilation to the quarrymen.

Today, it stands as a relic, showcasing how historical elements were preserved and repurposed. The crypt’s dark yet striking presence adds depth to the catacombs' chilling environment.

Planning a trip to Paris? Checkout our best selling Paris tour packages now!
03

Samaritan Fountain

One of the things you should see in the Paris Catacombs is the fascinating Samaritan Fountain. Nestled deep within the catacombs, this underground spring was once a vital water source for workers. Its serene presence amidst the eerie surroundings offers a striking contrast, making it a unique spot for reflection.

The fountain is named after the biblical Samaritan woman at the well, adding a touch of historical and religious significance. Discovering this hidden gem adds a layer of depth to your underground adventure, making your visit even more memorable

Must Read: Things to do in Paris
04

Quarryman’s Footbath

One intriguing feature in the Paris Catacombs is the Quarryman’s Footbath, a small pool that reflects the eerie ambiance of the underground world. This curious site was once used by workers to clean their tools and boots. As you explore what to see in the Paris Catacombs, the footbath stands out as a serene yet spooky reminder of the quarrymen’s daily lives.

The calm, clear water contrasts with the surrounding bones, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t miss this hidden gem when you venture into the depths of the catacombs.

Planning a honeymoon trip to Paris? Checkout our best selling Paris Honeymoon Packages now! 
05

The Barrel

When exploring the eerie depths of the Paris Catacombs, one of the most fascinating sights is the iconic Barrel. This unique structure, made entirely of tibiae and skulls, stands out among the otherwise neatly stacked bones. It’s a cylindrical pillar that captures the macabre creativity of the ossuary's creators.

Among some of the best things you should see in the Paris Catacombs, the Barrel is definitely a highlight. It’s not just a pile of bones; it’s a piece of art that tells a story of Paris’s history, making your catacomb journey even more intriguing and memorable.

Book Now: Louvre Museum Tickets
06

Decorative Skull Arrangements

When you explore the Paris Catacombs, the Decorative Skull Arrangements are a sight you can’t miss. These macabre yet fascinating displays showcase skulls meticulously arranged in artistic patterns. The skulls form heart shapes, crosses, and other intriguing designs, creating an eerie beauty that captivates visitors.

This careful arrangement adds a unique artistic touch to the otherwise somber atmosphere of the catacombs. For those wondering what to see in the Paris Catacombs, these decorative skulls are a must-see highlight that offers a glimpse into the creativity behind this underground ossuary.

Also Checkout: Unusual Places in Paris
07

Molière and La Fontaine’s Tombs

Exploring the Paris Catacombs, you'll stumble upon a section dedicated to the renowned French playwright Molière and poet Jean de La Fontaine. Notably, it is the final resting place of literary legends who shaped French literature and culture for centuries. The intricate arrangements of their remains, alongside historical plaques, offer a unique glimpse into the past.

Visiting Molière and La Fontaine’s tombs isn’t just a historical experience; it’s a chance to connect with the literary legacy embedded deep within the Paris Catacombs.

Also Checkout: Top Things to Do in Paris at Night
08

Bone Arrangements

One of the most intriguing things you should see in Paris Catacombs is the meticulous bone arrangements. As you explore the catacombs, you'll notice that bones aren't just randomly piled up; they're carefully arranged into artistic patterns. Skulls and femurs form crosses, and even elaborate walls of bones.

These macabre displays are both haunting and fascinating, revealing a mix of artistry and reverence. Each arrangement tells a silent story, transforming the eerie catacombs into an underground gallery. It's a unique experience that adds a touch of wonder to the chilling atmosphere.

Also Checkout: Things to Do Near Eiffel Tower Paris
09

Historical Placards

When exploring the Paris Catacombs, one of the most intriguing things to see is the historical placards. These informative signs, scattered throughout the labyrinthine tunnels, offer a glimpse into the rich history and purpose of this underground ossuary. Each placard tells a story, detailing the reasons behind the creation of the catacombs and the events that led to millions of Parisians being laid to rest here.

Reading these placards adds depth to your visit, transforming a spooky adventure into an enlightening journey through time. They truly bring the history of the Paris Catacombs to life.

Book Now: Seine River Cruise Tickets
10

Secret Passages

When exploring the Paris Catacombs, one of the most intriguing things you should see in Paris Catacombs are the secret passages. These hidden corridors, not typically open to the public, add an air of mystery and adventure to your visit.

Although many of these passages are off-limits, knowing they exist adds a thrilling dimension to your tour, making the catacombs not just a historical site, but a labyrinth of secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Also Checkout: Places to visit in Paris

People Also Ask About Paris

  1. What are the Paris Catacombs?

    The Paris Catacombs are a vast underground ossuary located beneath the streets of Paris. Originally limestone quarries, they were converted into a burial site in the late 18th century to address overcrowded cemeteries. Today, they house the remains of over six million people.
  2. Why should I visit the Paris Catacombs?

    Visiting the Paris Catacombs offers a unique glimpse into the city’s history and its darker side. You’ll explore eerie tunnels lined with bones and artistic arrangements, providing a fascinating mix of history, art, and mystery that you won’t find anywhere else in Paris.
  3. How long does a visit to the Paris Catacombs take?

    A typical visit to the Paris Catacombs lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. This allows time to explore the main sections, including the Wall of Bones, artistic displays, and various historical sites within the catacombs.
  4. Is it safe to visit the Paris Catacombs?

    Yes, visiting the Paris Catacombs is safe as long as you follow the guidelines. The paths are well-lit and secure, but due to narrow spaces, it's not recommended for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues. Visitors should also wear appropriate footwear as the floors can be uneven.
  5. Are there guided tours available at the Paris Catacombs?

    Yes, guided tours are available at the Paris Catacombs. These tours provide deeper insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the catacombs, making your visit more informative and engaging. It's advisable to book in advance, as spots can fill up quickly.
  6. Can I take photos inside the Paris Catacombs?

    Yes, photography is allowed inside the Paris Catacombs, but the use of flash and tripods is typically prohibited to preserve the atmosphere and protect the historical artifacts. Remember to be respectful of the site, as it is a resting place for millions of people
  7. What should I wear when visiting the Paris Catacombs?

    When visiting the Paris Catacombs, it’s best to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. The tunnels are cool, around 14°C (57°F), so bringing a light jacket is recommended. Since the floors can be uneven and damp, appropriate footwear is essential.
  8. Are there any restrictions for visiting the Paris Catacombs?

    Yes, there are a few restrictions. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and the catacombs are not suitable for people with mobility issues or those who suffer from claustrophobia. Also, large bags and luggage are not permitted, and there is no on-site storage.
Newly Added Paris Experience

Paris Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Paris

More Paris Attractions

Louvre Museum, paris Notre Dame Cathedral , paris Notre Dame Cathedral , paris Arc De Triomphe, paris Arc De Triomphe, paris Palace Of Versailles, paris Montmartre, paris Palace Of Versailles, paris Montmartre, paris Palais Garnier (The Opéra Garnier Grand Hall), paris Palais Garnier (The Opéra Garnier Grand Hall), paris Latin Quarter, paris Latin Quarter, paris Disneyland, paris Disneyland, paris Parc Asterix, paris Parc Asterix, paris Centre Pompidou Paris Aquaboulevard Paris Centre Pompidou Paris Aquaboulevard Paris Moulin Rouge Paris Moulin Rouge Paris Place De La Concorde, paris Place De La Concorde, paris Sainte Chapelle, paris Sainte Chapelle, paris Musee D'orsay, paris Musee D'orsay, paris Champs Elysees, paris Champs Elysees, paris Petit Palais Paris Petit Palais Paris Le Manoir De Paris Le Manoir De Paris Place Des Vosges, paris Place Des Vosges, paris Paris Zoological Park National Museum of Natural History Paris Parc de la Villette Paris Paris Zoological Park National Museum of Natural History Paris Parc de la Villette Paris Bois De Vincennes, paris Bois De Vincennes, paris Musée Jacquemart André, paris Musée Jacquemart André, paris Le Crazy Horse Paris Musee Carnavalet Paris Menagerie du Jardin des Plantes Paris Aquarium de Paris Les Invalides, paris Le Crazy Horse Paris Musee Carnavalet Paris Menagerie du Jardin des Plantes Paris Aquarium de Paris Les Invalides, paris Panthéon, paris Champs De Mars, paris Champs De Mars, paris Louvre Pyramid, paris Louvre Pyramid, paris Musee de lHomme Paris Musee de la Vie Romantique Paris Parc Des Buttes Chaumont, paris Musee de lHomme Paris Musee de la Vie Romantique Paris Parc Des Buttes Chaumont, paris Pont Neuf, paris Pont Neuf, paris Pont Des Arts, paris Pont Des Arts, paris Le Marais Paris Rue De Rivoli, paris Saint Germain des Pres Paris Musee Zadkine Paris Chateau de Chambord Paris Palais de la Porte Doree Paris LAtelier des Lumieres Paris Le Marais Paris Rue De Rivoli, paris Saint Germain des Pres Paris Musee Zadkine Paris Chateau de Chambord Paris Palais de la Porte Doree Paris LAtelier des Lumieres Paris Palais De Tokyo, paris Palais De Tokyo, paris Paris Flea Market Conciergerie, paris Paris Flea Market Conciergerie, paris Montparnasse Tower, paris Montparnasse Tower, paris Musee des Arts et Metiers Paris Seine River, paris Chateau de Fontainebleau Paris
13 December 2019
Excellent
Visiting Disneyland in Paris has always been a dream of mine and I get to thoroughly enjoy it. My idea of pre-booking the tickets was on point. I really didn't want to take any chances. Every moment I spent there was magical and I even got past the queue pretty fast. If you are going to visit Disneyland you better get an advance ticket booked, trust me it really helps.
18 November 2019
Excellent
The best part about the cruise was the breathtaking view that it served. The commentator in the ship was well informed and gave us great insights throughout the cruise. The trip lasted for about 30 minutes and we got to take a couple of very elegant pictures of the city from the cruise.
22 January 2020
Anjushree Namboothiri Seine River Cruise Paris
Excellent
We enjoyed an evening cruise on the beautiful waters of the Seine river. The experience was refreshing and we enjoyed the entire cruise. The ship was well maintained and smoothly managed by the people present there. I really like to thank Thrillophilia for its seamless service. I would recommend this cruise to everyone visiting Paris.
16 November 2019
Excellent
We got the 1:00 PM tour of the La Vallée Village for some much needed shopping that we wanted to do. We shopped and also enjoyed a good meal at the village. There was some really cool stuff that we bought including souvenirs.
12 January 2020
Excellent
The transport to La Vallée Village was very comfortable. The pickup and drop off was conducted very well. I and my partner engaged in a good shopping escapade where we spent hours buying various things. The village is one of the prominent places to shop and have a good time, overall. I would recommend every person who wants to get into some shopping should definitely visit La Vallee Village. It is worth every penny.
Vaishnavi Mehrotra Picasso National Museum Tickets
Excellent
The Picasso National Museum carried a ton of history. From the painting to the sculptures to the actual design of the museum everything is historical. Me, being a history buff I was engrossed in the place.
14 October 2019
Excellent
What an elegant place to discover. I always wanted to visit Picasso National Museum and I found this great discount they were providing on the tickets so I booked them for myself and my parents on our trip to Paris. We just showed our Thrillophilia vouchers on the location and they instantly allowed us in. I really liked it and would definitely recommend Thrillophilia.
Bhargava Acharya Hop on Hop Off Bus Paris
Excellent
The overall experience I would say was very positive. A must-try, I would say.
17 February 2020
Anjushri Sharma Hop on Hop Off Bus Paris
Excellent
The Paris Hop On Hop Off is a great way to enjoy and get to see all the important monuments in the place. The trip was amazing and worth a shot. My family along with me got to see a variety of scenic locations around the city. We took a lot of photos and had a great time on the tour. The bus was comfortable and easy to ride on.
06 January 2020
Excellent
I chose the transfer package of the Disneyland Paris tour by Thrillophilia because I had kids with me and I didn't want to wander around in various transport services with them. The pickup and drop service arranged by the team was really comfortable and saved a lot of my time. The trip was hassle-free. My kids had a lot of fun and I was just happy to see them enjoy so much.

Popular Nearby Places Around Paris

Popular Related Destinations

Places to Visit in India

Places to Visit in Delhi Places to Visit in Goa Places to Visit in Pune Places to Visit in Bangalore Places to Visit in Mumbai Places to Visit in Hyderabad Places to Visit in Jaipur Places to Visit in Chennai Places to Visit in Kolkata Places to Visit in Ladakh Places to Visit in Spiti Places to Visit in Andaman Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh Places to Visit in North East Places to Visit in Sikkim Places to Visit in Darjeeling Places to Visit in Meghalaya Places to Visit in Gangtok Places to Visit in Rajasthan Places to Visit in Uttarakhand Places to Visit in Kerala Places to Visit in Karnataka Places to Visit in Maharashtra Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh Places to Visit in Kashmir Places to Visit in Manali Places to Visit in Dharamshala Places to Visit in Shimla Places to Visit in Mcleodganj Places to Visit in Nainital Places to Visit in Mussoorie Places to Visit in Dehradun Places to Visit in Rishikesh Places To Visit In Jammu Places to Visit in Srinagar Places to Visit in Chikmagalur Places to Visit in Munnar Places to Visit in Kodaikanal Places to Visit in Ooty Places to Visit in Pondicherry Places to Visit in Wayanad Places to Visit in Coorg Places to Visit in Mysore Places to Visit in Lonavala Places to Visit in Alibaug Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar Places to Visit in Udaipur Places to Visit in Jodhpur Places to Visit in Jaisalmer Places to Visit in Mount Abu Places to Visit in Agra Places To Visit In South Goa Places To Visit In North Goa
Currency Picker
Commonly Used Currencies
INR -
Indian Rupee
USD - $
United States Dollar
EUR -
Euro
SGD - $
Singapore Dollar
AUD - $
Australian Dollar
GBP - £
British Pound
AED - د.إ
United Arab Emirates Dirham
All Other Currencies
ALL - L
Albanian Lek
AMD - դր.
Armenian Dram
ARS - $
Argentine Peso
AWG - ƒ
Aruban Florin
BBD - $
Barbadian Dollar
BDT -
Bangladeshi Taka
BMD - $
Bermudian Dollar
BND - $
Brunei Dollar
BOB - Bs.
Bolivian Boliviano
BSD - $
Bahamian Dollar
BWP - P
Botswana Pula
BZD - $
Belize Dollar
CAD - $
Canadian Dollar
CHF - CHF
Swiss Franc
CNY - ¥
Chinese Renminbi Yuan
COP - $
Colombian Peso
CRC -
Costa Rican Colón
CZK -
Czech Koruna
DKK - kr.
Danish Krone
DOP - $
Dominican Peso
DZD - د.ج
Algerian Dinar
EGP - ج.م
Egyptian Pound
ETB - Br
Ethiopian Birr
FJD - $
Fijian Dollar
GHS -
Ghanaian Cedi
GIP - £
Gibraltar Pound
GMD - D
Gambian Dalasi
GTQ - Q
Guatemalan Quetzal
GYD - $
Guyanese Dollar
HKD - $
Hong Kong Dollar
HNL - L
Honduran Lempira
HRK - kn
Croatian Kuna
HTG - G
Haitian Gourde
HUF - Ft
Hungarian Forint
IDR - Rp
Indonesian Rupiah
ILS -
Israeli New Sheqel
JMD - $
Jamaican Dollar
KES - KSh
Kenyan Shilling
KGS - som
Kyrgyzstani Som
KHR -
Cambodian Riel
KYD - $
Cayman Islands Dollar
KZT -
Kazakhstani Tenge
LAK -
Lao Kip
LBP - ل.ل
Lebanese Pound
LKR -
Sri Lankan Rupee
LRD - $
Liberian Dollar
LSL - L
Lesotho Loti
MAD - د.م.
Moroccan Dirham
MDL - L
Moldovan Leu
MKD - ден
Macedonian Denar
MMK - K
Myanmar Kyat
MNT -
Mongolian Tögrög
MOP - P
Macanese Pataca
MUR -
Mauritian Rupee
MVR - MVR
Maldivian Rufiyaa
MWK - MK
Malawian Kwacha
MXN - $
Mexican Peso
MYR - RM
Malaysian Ringgit
NAD - $
Namibian Dollar
NIO - C$
Nicaraguan Córdoba
NOK - kr
Norwegian Krone
NPR - Rs.
Nepalese Rupee
NZD - $
New Zealand Dollar
PEN - S/
Peruvian Sol
PGK - K
Papua New Guinean Kina
PHP -
Philippine Peso
PKR -
Pakistani Rupee
QAR - ر.ق
Qatari Riyal
RUB -
Russian Ruble
SAR - ر.س
Saudi Riyal
SCR -
Seychellois Rupee
SEK - kr
Swedish Krona
SLL - Le
Sierra Leonean Leone
SOS - Sh
Somali Shilling
SVC -
Salvadoran Colón
SZL - E
Swazi Lilangeni
THB - ฿
Thai Baht
TTD - $
Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
TZS - Sh
Tanzanian Shilling
UYU - $U
Uruguayan Peso
UZS - so'm
Uzbekistan Som
YER -
Yemeni Rial
ZAR - R
South African Rand
JPY - ¥
Japanese Yen
VND -
Vietnamese dong