Paris, the city of love, is known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums and galleries, and of course, the Eiffel Tower. But did you know that there is a hidden underground city beneath the streets of Paris?
Yes, you read that right! Let’s dive deeper into this fascinating topic.
What is the Underground City?
The Underground City or La Ville Souterraine in French refers to a network of tunnels and quarries beneath the city of Paris. These tunnels were initially created in the 13th century to extract limestone for building various structures in Paris. Over time, these quarries were expanded and connected to create a vast network of underground tunnels spanning over 300 kilometers.
Why Was it Created?
Apart from extracting limestone, these underground quarries were also used as a storage facility for various goods such as wine and cheese. During World War II, some of these tunnels were used as hideouts by the French Resistance. Later on, during the Cold War era, the French government utilized some parts of these tunnels as shelters in case of a nuclear attack.
Can You Visit?
Yes! Some parts of this underground city are open to visitors.
The Catacombs of Paris is one such attraction that draws tourists from all around the world. It is an ossuary located underground that houses skeletal remains from over six million people.
How to Visit Catacombs
To visit the Catacombs, one needs to purchase a ticket and descend down 130 steps to reach the ossuary. It is not recommended for those who suffer from claustrophobia as it can be quite cramped down there.
The Secret Tunnels
Apart from the Catacombs, there are several other secret tunnels within this underground city that are not open to visitors. These tunnels were created during different periods in history and served various purposes. Some of them were used as secret meeting places for French revolutionaries, while others were used as wine cellars.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the underground city of Paris is a remarkable feat of engineering that has stood the test of time. It is a fascinating place to explore and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the city. If you ever plan a trip to Paris, be sure to add the Catacombs to your itinerary!
8 Related Question Answers Found
Paris, the City of Lights, has always been famous for its grand architecture, art museums, high-end fashion, and gourmet cuisine. But beyond the well-known tourist attractions lies a hidden Paris that is waiting to be explored. In this article, we will take a look at the real hidden Paris that is not often talked about in travel guides.
Paris, the capital city of France, is known for its iconic landmarks, romantic streets, and rich culture. However, not many people know about the city’s origin and how it came to be. In this article, we’ll explore where Paris was originally located and how it has evolved over time.
Are There Still Mines in Paris? Paris, the city of lights and love, is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. However, beneath the charming streets and picturesque buildings lies an intriguing history of hidden underground mines.
Paris, the city of love, is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and delicious food. However, if you’re looking to soak up some sun and sand during your visit to Paris, you may be wondering if there are any beaches nearby. Beaches Near Paris
While Paris itself isn’t located near any beaches, there are a few options for beachgoers within a few hours’ drive or train ride from the city.
Paris is a city that is located in France. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and world-renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. However, there is often confusion about whether Paris is a country or a city.
Paris, the city of love and lights, is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. But did you know that there are also canals running under the streets of Paris? These canals are known as the Paris Sewer System.
Paris is a city with a rich and fascinating history, and one of the most intriguing aspects of that history is the existence of an underground city. Yes, you read that right – there is an entire subterranean world beneath the streets of Paris! What is the Underground City?
Is Paris a Country or City? Paris is often associated with romance, fashion, and culinary delights. But have you ever wondered whether Paris is a country or a city?
