Paris, the capital city of France, is known for its famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. However, there is a mysterious side of Paris that many people are not aware of – the underground.
What is the Underground in Paris?
The underground in Paris is a network of tunnels and catacombs that stretch under the city streets. These tunnels were initially built as quarries to extract limestone to build some of Paris’s most famous buildings. Over time, these quarries grew into an extensive network of tunnels that run for miles under the city.
History of the Underground
During the 18th century, Paris’s population grew rapidly, and it became necessary to create more space for living and commercial purposes. The solution was to build more buildings on top of existing structures or expand them underground.
The underground tunnels were used for various purposes over time. During World War II, they served as a refuge for French resistance fighters and civilians during air raids. Later on, they were used by smugglers and criminals to hide from authorities.
In 1955, after several cave-ins occurred due to the extensive use of these tunnels, the French government decided to close most of them down. Today, only a small section is open for tourists to explore.
Exploring the Underground
If you’re interested in exploring this mysterious side of Paris yourself, there are a few things you should know before embarking on your adventure.
Firstly, it’s essential to book a guided tour with a licensed tour operator. Exploring these tunnels without proper guidance can be dangerous since many areas are unstable or flooded.
Secondly, visitors must be physically fit since some parts require crawling through narrow passages or climbing up steep stairs.
The Catacombs
One of the most popular attractions in this underground network is the Catacombs. The Catacombs are a vast underground ossuary that holds the remains of over six million people. The bones were transferred to this location in the late 18th century when Paris’s cemeteries became overcrowded.
The Catacombs are accessible via a long spiral staircase that descends into the depths of the underground tunnels. Once inside, visitors can explore the various chambers decorated with neatly stacked bones and skulls.
The Forbidden Zone
The Forbidden Zone is another section of the underground network that is off-limits to visitors. It’s a vast network of tunnels and galleries that have been closed off since 1955 due to their unstable condition.
Despite being off-limits, many people still attempt to explore this area since it’s rumored to contain hidden treasures and mysterious artifacts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Paris’ underground is a fascinating and mysterious place that holds many secrets and stories. While exploring it can be thrilling, it’s crucial to do so safely with proper guidance and equipment.
Whether you’re interested in history, adventure, or just looking for something different to do in Paris, exploring the city’s underground will undoubtedly leave you with unforgettable memories.