Six Million Remains

The Paris Catacombs contain the remains of more than six million people, making them one of the largest ossuaries in the world. These bones were transferred from overcrowded cemeteries across Paris beginning in the late eighteenth century. Inside the galleries, skulls and bones were carefully arranged into decorative walls, creating the distinctive corridors visitors see today.

300 Kilometers of Tunnels

Beneath the streets of Paris lies a vast underground network of former limestone quarries stretching for more than 300 kilometers. However, only a small portion of this network is open to the public. The official visitor route through the Catacombs covers about 1.5 kilometers, offering a glimpse into a much larger hidden labyrinth.

The Famous Entrance Inscription

At the entrance to the ossuary galleries, visitors pass beneath the well-known inscription Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la Mort. The phrase translates to “Stop! This is the empire of death.” Added in the early nineteenth century, it marks the symbolic boundary between the former quarry tunnels and the memorial galleries of the Catacombs.

Paris Catacombs Restricted Area

Most of the tunnels beneath Paris belong to the Paris Catacombs restricted area, meaning they are not open to the public. These sections include fragile quarry passages, archaeological remains, and unstable corridors that require protection. Visitors are therefore required to stay on the official route, while only a small number of guided experiences may access limited additional areas. → Explore the Paris Catacombs guided tours & tickets.

The Cataphiles

Over time, a small underground exploration culture known as cataphiles developed in Paris. These enthusiasts are fascinated by the hidden quarry network beneath the city and its long history. While the official Catacombs route is safe and well maintained, entering the unauthorized tunnels is illegal and strictly prohibited by local authorities.