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| Inscriptions in the Limestone walls of the former quarries mark the dates of the excavations |
Breaking from long habit of only enjoying our travels from what we can see for free, we took the chance to venture into an area where the only legal entry is via the tourist trap. Our travel companions this trip wanted to see the catacombs, we tagged along.
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| Limestone fortifications to shore up walls |
Underground adventure is something that we are fundamentally not that in to. Caving, Mining, and other subterranean explorations are not usually our cup of tea. It is creepy, dirty, and not achievable while travelling on business so often. But here in Paris there is a chance. For around 30-35€ one can enter a once forbidden part of the city and check it out.
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| The Halls of Moria |
It takes just under 1 hour to walk the length of the Catacombs that are open to the public. There is a lot to say on the topic but I won't paraphrase all the writings here. That is not what this blog is for. We are still not of clear mind about how to unpack the experience in regards to respectfulness, historic value, or interest for future travelers. I guess more introspection is still needed.
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| The Black line on the ceiling was the only guide in centuries past to keep from getting lost |
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| Skulls and Femurs make up the bulk of the walls in the Ossuary Portion of the Catacombs |
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| Years of neglect, abuse, and decay are visible throughout |
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| The most morbid Jenga set-up imaginable these walls are comprised of the remains of over 6 million Parisians |
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| Quotes, bible verses, and other messages mark limestone engravings throughout |
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| 17th and 18th century Parisians used to host concerts in these galleries |
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| Pillars and supports of the former quarries are surrounded by bones |
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| Markers denote not the dates of passing, but the date they were moved here; 1792 in this case |
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catacombs_of_Paris
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