Is There an Underground City in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

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?

The underground city of Paris is a network of tunnels, catacombs, and abandoned quarries that span over 200 miles beneath the city. Some parts of this underground labyrinth date back to ancient times, while others were created during more recent events such as World War II.

Why Was it Created?

The tunnels and quarries were originally created to extract limestone for construction purposes. Over time, however, many of these quarries became abandoned and forgotten. During the French Revolution, some parts of the underground network were used to hide from authorities or transport contraband goods.

In more recent times, during World War II, members of the French Resistance used the tunnels to move around undetected by German soldiers occupying Paris.

Can You Visit?

While some sections of the underground city are accessible to visitors, it’s important to note that not all areas are safe or legal to explore. In fact, some parts are so dangerous that they are completely off-limits to everyone.

One popular tourist attraction within the underground network is the Catacombs of Paris – a series of ossuaries holding over six million human bones. This macabre site attracts over 500,000 visitors each year.

Why is it So Intriguing?

The concept of an entire underground city hidden beneath one’s feet is both fascinating and eerie. The vastness and complexity of this subterranean world continue to captivate people’s imaginations.

Moreover, many rumors surround this mysterious network – from secret societies holding meetings in hidden chambers to ghosts haunting the tunnels.

The Bottom Line

The underground city of Paris is a unique and fascinating aspect of the city’s history. While some parts are accessible to visitors, it’s important to respect the safety regulations and not venture into areas that are off-limits.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply intrigued by tales of hidden worlds, the underground city of Paris is definitely worth exploring – even if only from the safety of a guided tour.