Explore
This is the main section of the Paris Catacombs. You will walk past the carefully stacked remains of six million Parisians.
The ossuary covers a 1.5-kilometer circuit 20 meters below the streets. Officials moved bones here to clear overflowing 18th-century cemeteries.
You will walk through narrow corridors lined entirely with skulls and femurs. Keep your hands to yourself. Touching the bones is strictly prohibited.
5 minutesPhoto spot
A stone doorway marks the official start of the ossuary. An inscription warns: 'Arrête! C'est ici l'empire de la Mort' (Stop! This is the empire of Death). Take photos quickly here so you do not block the narrow path.
5 minutesHistorical monument
This area houses a stone monument that once held an oil lamp. The lamp helped keep air flowing through the tunnels for quarrymen. Look at the walls surrounding the monument to see distinct cross patterns made of human skulls.
5 minutesBone pillar
This is a massive structural pillar shaped like a barrel. Workers built it entirely from stacked skulls and femurs. This unique bone formation was the backdrop for a secret underground concert in the 19th century.
5 minutes112 steps up
You leave the ossuary via a narrow spiral staircase. This returns you to street level at 21 bis Avenue René-Coty. The 112 steps up are physically demanding. Pace yourself as you climb after an hour of walking.
