Secrets of the Paris Catacombs - Exclusive Guide

Paris Catacombs Skip-the-Line Guided Tour and Special Access

Discover the chambers below the streets of Paris and learn the secrets of the world’s largest underground burial site on a skip-the-line guided tour of the Paris Catacombs. Access areas not available to the general public.

This activity is non-refundable

Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.

Check availability to see starting times.

• Descend 20 meters below the streets to explore the Paris Catacombs
• Skip the lines and get special access to forbidden areas
• Learn why the remains of over 6 million people were transported underground in the 18th century
• Immerse yourself in the history of legendary struggles and triumphs

Full description

Meet your guide at the Paris Catacombs and skip the lines to descend 20 meters below street level. Learn how 200 miles of tunnels were mined to solve the problem of the overcrowded cemeteries, and hear about the struggle and ultimate glory of the macabre, sacred site.

Get a feel for the amazing chambers as you pass the "Arrete. C'est Ici L'Empire De La Mort" ("Stop. Here is the Empire of Death") sign. Find yourself surrounded by bones and skulls, carefully arranged with reverence and a decorative flourish.

Enter special areas closed to the general public as you follow in the footsteps of the 18th and 19th-century French royals.

• Skip-the-line entry ticket to the Paris Catacombs
• VIP access to areas not available to the general public
• English-speaking guide
• Tips

• People with mobility impairments
• Wheelchair users

From Metro station Denfert Rochereau (line 4 or 6), use Exit 1 to reach the street level. You’ll see the Catacombs entrance, with glass doors and a sign, across the street, located to the right of the small green building that was the former entrance. Your guide will be waiting with an orange "ExperienceFirst" sign.

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• What to bring: Comfortable shoes
• Not allowed: Pets, Smoking, Luggage or large bags

This tour includes an approximately 1-mile walk, with about 130 steps down and 85 steps back up to street level. It is not recommended for people who have mobility issues or suffer from anxiety in closed spaces.

Please note that the temperature in the catacombs is around 14 degrees Celsius

If the selected time is not available you will be offered options to reschedule. If you are unable to accept a reschedule option you will be offered a full refund.

First Steps into the Catacombs: Original Purpose of the Catacombs

The catacombs, often shrouded in mystery and intrigue, have a rich history dating back centuries. These underground burial sites have fascinated archaeologists, historians, and adventurers alike. The phrase "First Steps into the Catacombs" evokes a sense of exploration and discovery, inviting us to delve into the origins and original purpose of these enigmatic structures.

The term "catacombs" most commonly refers to subterranean burial chambers, often associated with ancient Rome and early Christianity. However, catacombs can be found in various cultures and civilizations around the world, each with its unique story to tell.

Ancient Rome: The Birthplace of Catacombs

Ancient Rome is perhaps the most renowned for its extensive network of catacombs. These underground chambers served as burial grounds for early Christians, who faced persecution and were prohibited from burying their dead within the city walls. The catacombs provided a safe haven for this community to honor their departed loved ones and practice their faith in secret.

Constructed along the Appian Way and other strategic locations, Roman catacombs are a testament to the resilience and creativity of early Christians. The intricate passageways are adorned with frescoes, inscriptions, and symbols reflecting the beliefs and customs of the time.

Beyond Rome: Global Variations

While Rome holds a prominent place in catacomb history, similar underground burial sites exist in other parts of the world. For instance, the Catacombs of Paris in France gained notoriety in the 18th century when they became a macabre tourist attraction. These catacombs house the remains of millions, transferred from overflowing cemeteries during the 18th and 19th centuries.

In Egypt, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa stand as a testament to the fusion of Hellenistic and Egyptian funerary practices. This unique site combines elements of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art and architecture, showcasing the cultural diversity of Alexandria during the Greco-Roman period.

The Mystique and Legends

Over the years, catacombs have captured the imagination of storytellers and adventurers, giving rise to countless legends and urban myths. Tales of secret societies, ghostly apparitions, and hidden treasures have added to the allure of these underground labyrinths.

Exploring catacombs today often requires careful planning and adherence to safety guidelines. Many catacomb sites are protected and regulated to preserve their historical and cultural significance.

FAQs

What is the purpose of catacombs?

Catacombs served as underground burial sites, providing a final resting place for various communities, especially in times when traditional burial was restricted or unsafe.

Are catacombs only found in Rome?

No, catacombs can be found in various parts of the world, each with its unique cultural and historical context. Rome is famous for its catacombs, but similar underground burial sites exist in other regions as well.

Are catacombs open to the public?

Many catacomb sites are open to the public, but access is often regulated to ensure preservation and safety. It's important to follow guidelines and restrictions when exploring these historical sites.