Has Anyone Lost the Catacombs in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

Have you ever heard about the Catacombs of Paris? These underground ossuaries hold the remains of six million people, beautifully arranged to form walls and pillars.

The Catacombs are a popular tourist attraction in Paris, but have you ever wondered if anyone has ever lost their way in this dark and eerie place? Let’s find out!

The History of the Catacombs

The Catacombs were created in the late 18th century when Paris’ cemeteries were overflowing with bodies, causing health hazards and a foul smell. The city officials decided to exhume the bodies and move them to an underground location. Over the years, more bones were added to the catacombs from other cemeteries around Paris.

The Layout of the Catacombs

The Catacombs are an intricate network of tunnels that stretch for miles beneath the streets of Paris. The tunnels are poorly lit, narrow, and winding, making it easy for visitors to get lost. To help visitors navigate their way through these tunnels, there are maps available at the entrance points.

Have Anyone Ever Lost Their Way in the Catacombs?

There have been numerous stories over the years about people getting lost in the Catacombs. Some of these stories are just urban legends, while others are true.

In 1793, a group of people got lost in the catacombs for three days before they were rescued. In 1833, Philibert Aspairt disappeared while exploring the catacombs and was never found. In 1955, two teenagers got lost in the catacombs for three days before they were finally rescued by search parties.

How to Avoid Getting Lost

To avoid getting lost in this maze-like network of tunnels, it is recommended that visitors take guided tours instead of trying to explore the Catacombs on their own. The tours are conducted by experienced guides who know the tunnels well and can provide valuable insights into the history of the Catacombs.

Conclusion

Although there have been instances of people getting lost in the Catacombs, it is relatively safe for visitors who follow the guidelines and take guided tours. The Catacombs remain one of Paris’ most unique and fascinating attractions, drawing in millions of visitors every year.