Paris Catacombs timeline

1st century: Limestone quarries near the Seine River banks are mined by Romans to build Lutetia (ancient Paris).
1774: King Louis XVI's administration strengthens the underground tunnels after multiple mine collapses in the Montmartre and Left Bank areas.
18th century: Overcrowding in cemeteries like Saints-Innocents causes contamination of wells and water supplies, worsening sanitary conditions in Paris.
1780: A basement wall of a building adjacent to the Saints-Innocents Cemetery collapses under the weight of mass graves, leading to further public health concerns.
1785–1787: Remains from Saints-Innocents and other overcrowded cemeteries are transferred in nightly processions to underground ossuaries, which would later become the Catacombs.
1809: The Catacombs officially open to the public, housing remains from over 150 cemeteries.
Post-French Revolution: By the 19th century, the Catacombs become a popular attraction for mourners and visitors alike.

A crisis ignites action

In 1774, a catastrophic mine collapse in Montmartre caused significant destruction, prompting action from King Louis XVI’s administration. By 1777, the Inspection Générale des Carrières was established to manage and reinforce Paris’s underground tunnels.

Around the same time, a wall at the Holy-Innocents Cemetery collapsed, spilling human remains into nearby buildings. To address both overcrowded cemeteries and the risk of further mine collapses, authorities began relocating human remains to the newly reinforced tunnels. This monumental operation transformed abandoned quarries into burial sites, solving two critical issues at once.

The transformation of tunnels

Between 1785 and 1787, nightly processions transported remains from Holy-Innocents and other cemeteries to underground ossuaries. Workers reinforced the tunnels to support the immense weight of millions of bones. Carefully arranged to maximize space, the remains were organized into large galleries. This process transformed crumbling quarries into solemn passageways, resolving Paris’s burial crisis while preserving its underground infrastructure.

The ossuary takes shape

By the late 1780s, millions of bones were relocated to the tunnels, creating an extensive underground ossuary. Workers arranged the remains into walls, patterns, and memorial displays, blending artistry with macabre. Sourced from over 150 cemeteries, these bones represent centuries of Parisian history. Commemorative plaques marked origins, transforming the ossuary into a space of remembrance. Over time, this haunting network became known as the Catacombs—a unique fusion of burial ground and historical artifact, reflecting Paris’s response to urban challenges.

Opening to the public

The Catacombs officially opened to visitors in 1809, drawing mourners and the curious alike. Its eerie atmosphere and uniquely arranged bones quickly earned it a reputation as a mysterious and fascinating site. Early visitors, including writers and artists, found inspiration in its haunting beauty. Over time, the Catacombs evolved into one of Paris’s most intriguing attractions, blending solemn remembrance with morbid fascination.

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Catacombe di Parigi con ingresso a orario prestabilito e audioguida

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Combo: biglietti per le catacombe + Crociera sulla Senna

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1 h

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Combo (10% di sconto): Arco di Trionfo con accesso al tetto + Biglietti d'ingresso alle catacombe di Parigi con audio-guida

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Tour guidato delle catacombe di Parigi

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2 h

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Paris Catacombs today

Unsurprisingly, the Catacombs receive an annual footfall of 550,000 visitors, for a close-up look at human mortality. A rare blend of art, history, and mystery, this underground ossuary continues to offer a glimpse into the city's past.

As of October 2024, a group of archeologists, anthropologists, biologists, and doctors are examining some of the skeletons from the Catacombs to understand the public health, surgeries people underwent, and illnesses they suffered, many years ago in Paris and its suburbs.

Plan your visit to the Catacombs

Frequently asked questions about Paris Catacombs' history

Why were the Paris Catacombs initially created?

The Catacombs were created to address public health issues caused by overcrowded cemeteries in Paris during the late 18th century.

How were the remains transported into the Catacombs?

Human remains were carefully moved from cemeteries at night, under torchlight, in ceremonial processions to avoid public unrest and maintain respect.

How many people are estimated to be buried in the Paris Catacombs?

Approximately 6 million individuals’ remains are housed within the ossuary.

What is the historical significance of the Catacombs during the French Revolution?

The Catacombs served as a secret meeting spot for revolutionaries and were rumored to be used for strategic discussions during the turbulent period.

Are there any famous individuals buried in the Catacombs?

While the bones are not identified, many remains belong to individuals from prominent periods in Parisian history, including those from the French Revolution.

Is there a record of all the people whose remains are in the Catacombs?

No detailed records exist since many remains were transferred in mass burials.

What is the most recent historical event associated with the Catacombs?

In recent history, urban adventurers have explored the Catacombs and it has also been featured in films and cultural stories. Check out our intriguing facts page to know more.

Are there any areas in the Catacombs that remain unexplored?

Yes, out of the 2000 acres, the Catacombs are restricted to only a 1.5 km circuit. To gain the best experience of this circuit, book a guided tour, which also allows access to selective restricted areas.

Why do the Paris Catacombs remain a point of global fascination?

They are a unique blend of history, architecture, and the human connection to mortality, drawing close to 550,000 visitors annually. Plan your visit to the Catacombs today