Paris, France – French authorities have announced the closure of the catacombs in Paris – one of the most mysterious and exciting tourist sites in the capital –
starting from November 3 for a full six months.
In order to carry out comprehensive restoration and maintenance work aimed at preserving
this unique historical landmark that dates back more than two and a half centuries.
According to AFP, the Paris municipality said the decision came
after maintenance teams reported water leaks from the basement ceiling.
This caused extreme humidity and constant dripping over the walls covered
with the bones and skulls of millions of people.
They have been buried in this place since the 18th century.
The goal of the Catacombs project
The restoration project aims to secure the site’s infrastructure and improve the ventilation and drainage system.
This ensures the safety of visitors and historical artifacts.
The catacombs are among the most prominent tourist attractions in Paris.
It extends over an area of more than 300 kilometers of underground tunnels,
Which contains the remains of approximately six million people transferred from public cemeteries during the eighteenth century,
When the city was suffering from overcrowded cemeteries and the spread of diseases.
Half a million tourists
More than half a million tourists from all over the world visit the catacombs annually.
It is one of the sites that combines the historical aspect with an exciting human dimension.
Over time, it has become a symbolic witness to the city’s history and urban changes.
The museum administration in Paris confirmed that the closure is temporary.
The site will reopen in the spring of 2026 after the completion of restoration work.
She noted that the project also includes improving internal pathways and upgrading lighting systems to ensure a safer experience for visitors.
