Paris: Small-Group Catacombs Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry
Descend into the macabre and mysterious underbelly of Paris. Skip the line and tour the catacombs with a small-group. Have an intimate perspective of the complex and its history as you follow your guide through the myriad of bones.
Activity provider: LivItaly Tours LLC - Experiencing Italy
Experience Highlights:
- Take a small-group tour of the Paris Catacombs
- Enjoy skip-the-line access to the popular attraction
- Have exclusive access to restricted areas
- Learn about the catacombs from your expert guide
Beneath the dazzling lights of modern Paris lie the devilishly dark catacombs. On this small-group tour have skip-the-line entry and exclusive access to restricted areas. Explore the 200-mile maze of remains from roughly 6 million Parisians with an expert guide.
Your Paris Catacombs tour begins with a bone-chilling descent down the complex’s 133-step staircase. Your guide will explain how these tunnels were used in the 13th-century to quarry limestone for buildings as grand as Notre Dame. As you make your way through the narrow tunnels, learn why bad weather in the 1780s forced Parisians to bury their dead here.
During the tour, have plenty of time to admire the Catacombs’ disturbingly detailed bone decorations. From religious iconography to hearts, workers found many ways to “beautify” the bones housed in this complex. There is, however, one decoration that will really make your spine tingle. Inside the popular Crypt of the Passion take a few moments to gaze at “The Barrel,” which is constructed out of various skeletal remains.
In addition to housing the dead, the Catacombs played an important role during many significant historic events. Your guide will tell you tales of the German Wehrmacht and the French Resistance who both used part of the Catacombs as wartime bunkers during World War II. Also, learn about its relationship to the French Revolution.
If you are not afraid of ghosts, then ask your guide about the grave of the doorman Philibert Aspairt who passed away in the Catacombs in the 18th century. Learn about the cataphiles who have caused a stir in recent years for hosting huge raves, swimming parties, and an extensive network in this underground city of the dead. Keep your eyes peeled for graffiti left by cataphiles on your Catacombs Tour.
Includes:
- Skip-the-line entry to the Paris Catacombs
- Professional, local, expert guide
- Small-group tour of only 6 people
Meeting point: In front of the Catacomb's main entrance on 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, Paris, France. Your guide will be holding a LivTours sign.
Important information: On rare occasions, an exception may be made to the 6 people per a group policy in order to accommodate participants traveling together as to not split groups
From US$ 158.85 per person
The Macabre Beauty of the Catacombs: The Story Behind "The Barrel"
Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Paris lies a world shrouded in mystery and morbidity - the Catacombs. This underground ossuary, spanning over 200 miles, houses the skeletal remains of millions of individuals, creating a hauntingly beautiful spectacle that has captivated visitors for centuries.
One of the most intriguing features within this subterranean realm is a structure known as "The Barrel." This enigmatic chamber, adorned with carefully arranged bones, exudes an eerie allure that has piqued the interest of artists, historians, and explorers alike.
The Enigmatic "Barrel"
Upon entering "The Barrel," visitors are immediately met with a striking display of human remains. Skulls and femurs form intricate patterns, creating a macabre tapestry that seems both chaotic and meticulously organized. The arrangement is a testament to the skill and artistry of the anonymous catacomb builders.
Theories abound regarding the purpose of "The Barrel." Some speculate that it was a ceremonial chamber, used for religious or occult rituals. Others suggest that it may have served as a memorial to commemorate a specific event or group of individuals.
The History Behind the Catacombs
The Catacombs of Paris have a storied history that dates back to the late 18th century. As the city's cemeteries became overcrowded and posed health risks, authorities sought a solution to this grim dilemma. The remains of millions were exhumed and transferred to the abandoned limestone quarries beneath the city.
Over the years, the Catacombs evolved from a mere repository of bones into an underground maze, complete with chambers and passageways. It became a clandestine haven for various subcultures, including artists, revolutionaries, and urban explorers.
The Artistic Significance
"The Barrel" stands as a testament to the artistic potential that can emerge from the most unlikely of mediums. The juxtaposition of life and death, chaos and order, creates a powerful visual narrative that continues to inspire creators around the world.
Countless artists have drawn inspiration from the haunting beauty of the Catacombs, incorporating its motifs into their works. Painters, sculptors, and photographers have all sought to capture the ethereal essence of this subterranean masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of "The Barrel" within the Catacombs?
"The Barrel" is an enigmatic chamber within the Catacombs of Paris, characterized by its intricate arrangement of human remains. Its purpose remains a subject of speculation, with theories ranging from ceremonial use to commemorative significance.
How did the Catacombs of Paris come into existence?
The Catacombs were established in the late 18th century as a solution to the overcrowded cemeteries of Paris. Millions of skeletal remains were relocated from cemeteries to the abandoned limestone quarries beneath the city.
What is the artistic significance of the Catacombs?
The Catacombs, including "The Barrel," hold immense artistic value. The arrangement of bones, juxtaposing life and death, has inspired countless artists across various mediums. It serves as a testament to the transformative potential of even the most macabre materials.
