Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural landmarks. However, many people wonder if there are mines in Paris. Let’s explore this topic and find out if there is any truth to this claim.
The History of Mines in Paris
Paris has a long history of mining, dating back to the Roman times when they extracted building materials from the area. However, it wasn’t until the 12th century that mining began on a larger scale for the extraction of limestone and gypsum.
The Catacombs
One of the most well-known underground attractions in Paris is the Catacombs. This network of tunnels houses over six million human skeletons that were moved there from overcrowded cemeteries in the late 18th century. However, these tunnels were not originally intended for this purpose.
Fact: The Catacombs are not technically mines but rather abandoned quarries that were later used as ossuaries.
Mines Underneath Paris
There are indeed mines underneath Paris, but they are not open to the public due to safety concerns. These mines are known as “Les Carrières de Paris” and span over 300 kilometers beneath the city streets.
Danger: The mines are unstable and can collapse at any moment, posing a significant risk to anyone who enters them.
Why Were Mines Built Underneath Paris?
The mines underneath Paris were primarily used for extracting limestone and gypsum used for construction purposes such as building Notre Dame Cathedral and other iconic buildings in the city.
Fun Fact: The white stone used to construct many of Paris’ buildings was sourced from these underground quarries.
The Ban on Mining in Paris
In 1777, King Louis XVI officially banned mining in Paris due to the safety hazards it posed. Despite this ban, illegal mining continued until the 1950s, leading to the collapse of several buildings and streets in the city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are indeed mines underneath Paris, but they are not accessible to the public due to safety concerns. The Catacombs are not mines but rather abandoned quarries used as ossuaries. The mines were primarily used for construction purposes, and King Louis XVI banned mining in Paris in 1777 due to safety concerns.
If you ever visit Paris and want to explore its underground attractions, stick to the Catacombs and avoid venturing into any unknown underground areas as it can be extremely dangerous.