1. sertol
   Member

   Was wondering if anyone could give me some info on the Paris Catacombs?

   I will be in Paris early in the new year and this is close to the top of my things to do list. I have found some info on the tombs online and on this forum, but would love to hear from people that have experienced it themselves, whether positive or not.

   Is the only way to see the Tombs in an organized tour? Anyone recommend a tour down there?

   I hear there are also many "secret" entrances to the tombs scattered all over Paris, does anyone know where I may be able to find some? I know about the entrance opposite the Denfert-Rochereau Metro station...is this the main entrance?

   I am very interested to see these Tombs, I have visited many similar underground tombs and catacombs in other cities, but the Paris tombs look incredible and a must see...

   Any advice will be much appreciated.

   Posted 7 months ago #

2. dodoko
   Member

   Most of the clandestine entrances have been sealed in Paris. There was so much activity underground that there were even police on patrol underground, giving out very hefty fines. In any case, the 'unofficial' system is completely separated from the 'bone' section that tourists visit during the day.

   However, there are plenty of people still out there. You can Google the word 'cataphile' and find tons of additional information (mostly in French of course).

   Posted 7 months ago #

3. sertol
   Member

   Just out of curiousity...do you know what the fines are? I have been told they are around 60euros?

   Are there warnings for "first time" offenders caught in the tunnels?

   Posted 7 months ago #

4. zarabo
   Member

   ...and by the way - they arn't really tombs, but old chalk mines where the bones from cancelled cemeteries were put.

   Posted 7 months ago #

5. sertol
   Member

   cheers...the bone "tomb" is just one of many of the Paris underground tunnels etc that I would be keen to see...the fact that they were once chalk mines is just as fascinating. The bones just add to the excitement... :)

   Posted 7 months ago #

6. lokis
   Member

   was just there last month and as Zoe says, the main entrance at Denfert-Rochereau, you pay a fee (6 euros?) and then it's self-guided.
   I found the information at the beginning (large placards with drawings and descriptions) helpful as I only knew the very basics of the catacombs.
   It was one of the highlights of our trip and we managed to see practically every major monument and museum in Paris.

   Posted 7 months ago #

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