Navigating The Catacombs of Paris : Answers to common questions
- Admission Fee: Admission fee required; tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance.
- How Long to Visit: Visitors typically spend around 45 minutes to an hour underground.
- Washrooms: Restrooms are available at the entrance/exit only.
- Hours of Operation: Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 8:30 PM, last admission at 7:30 PM.
- Important Information: Temperature inside is constant around 14°C (57°F); bring a sweater even in summer.
- Parking: Limited parking in the area; it's best to use the Denfert-Rochereau public transport hub nearby.
- Family Friendly: May not be suitable for young children due to the nature of the site.
- Photography: Photography is allowed; however, flash and tripods are not permitted.
- WIFI: No WIFI available within the Catacombs.
- Gift Shop: Gift shop at exit sells themed souvenirs and books.
- Handicap Accessible: The Catacombs are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs and uneven ground.
- Pets: Pets are not allowed in the Catacombs.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours offer extensive information about the history of the Catacombs.
- Restaurant or Cafe: No dining or picnic facilities available; eat before or after your visit.
Please note all times and prices subject to change. Please check the offical website for details.
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Map for The Catacombs of Paris
Did You Know?
The catacombs have also been the subject of legends and stories, including tales of secret societies holding meetings within its dark corridors and of individuals who have ventured into unauthorized areas, never to return. Despite these tales, or perhaps because of them, the Catacombs of Paris continue to captivate the imagination of people around the world, offering a unique glimpse into the depths beneath one of the world's most bustling cities.
The Catacombs of Paris were opened to the public in the early 19th century and have since become a fascinating, if eerie, tourist attraction. Visitors can explore a small portion of the catacombs, walking through narrow corridors lined with neatly stacked skulls and bones. The atmosphere is one of solemn reflection, as the catacombs serve as a reminder of the city's history and the ever-present specter of death.
The process of moving the bones to the catacombs took place mostly at night, in a solemn procession of carts covered in black veils. The bones were then arranged decoratively in the catacombs' chambers, with inscriptions and markers indicating their origin. This macabre decor not only served a practical purpose but also reflected the Romantic era's fascination with death and the afterlife.
The Catacombs of Paris, known officially as les Carrières de Paris, offer a haunting journey into the city's subterranean past. These underground ossuaries, stretching over 200 miles beneath the city's streets, house the remains of more than six million people, making them one of the largest grave sites in the world.
Originally, the catacombs were limestone quarries, mined to provide the stone for many of Paris's buildings. However, by the end of the 18th century, Paris's cemeteries were overflowing, leading to sanitary concerns. In 1786, it was decided to repurpose these abandoned quarries into an ossuary, relocating bones from cemeteries such as the Cemetery of the Innocents.
Travel Information for
Paris Visitors
Time Zone: Paris operates on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).
Weather: Paris has a Western European oceanic climate. The summers are generally warm and pleasant with average temperatures between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are cold with temperatures often dropping to around 1 to 7 degrees Celsius (34 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit). Rain is fairly distributed throughout the year, with light showers more common.
Population: Paris has a population of over 2 million people within its administrative city limits. The wider Paris metropolitan area has a population of around 12 million, making it one of the largest urban areas in Europe.
Size: Paris covers an area of about 105 square kilometers (40.7 square miles). Despite its relatively small size, the city is densely populated and is divided into 20 districts, known as arrondissements.
Language: The official language is French. While many Parisians speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic French phrases can be helpful and is appreciated by the locals.
Currency: France uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash, especially for smaller purchases in bakeries, open markets, or in areas less frequented by tourists.
Safety: Paris is generally considered safe for tourists. Like any major city, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
Tipping: In Paris, a service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants. However, it's customary to leave a small extra tip if you're happy with the service.
Electricity and Plugs: France uses Type C and Type E plugs, and the standard voltage is 230 V with a standard frequency of 50 Hz. Travelers from countries with different electrical standards may need adapters.
Water: Tap water in Paris is safe to drink. Many cafes and restaurants will serve tap water for free if requested.
Verified & Trusted Contact Information for The Catacombs of Paris
Address:
1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75004 Paris, France
Website: www.catacombes.paris.fr/
Latitude: 48.8333
Longitude: 2.3324
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