The catacombs in Paris were created in the late 18th century as a solution to overcrowded cemeteries, and they still attract tourists from around the world.
Visiting the catacombs is an eerie and unconventional experience, with neatly organized bones and thought-provoking ambiance.
The catacombs have inspired awe and contemplation for centuries, with their historical significance, inscriptions, and sculptures made from bones.
Deep dives
History and Purpose of the Catacombs
The catacombs in Paris were created in the late 18th century as a solution to the overcrowded cemeteries in the city. The bones from various cemeteries were moved to underground tunnels and organized into piles. The catacombs were opened to the public in 1809 and became a popular tourist attraction. However, they were closed in 1830 and reopened in 1850. Today, catacombs are not taking in new bones, and the last transfer of bones took place in the 1930s.
The Experience of Visiting the Catacombs
Visiting the catacombs is an eerie and unconventional experience. The tour consists of walking through tunnels lined with neatly organized bones, including skulls and long bones. The atmosphere is typically damp and musty, but does not have a noticeable odor. Visitors are guided through the catacombs, following a designated route marked by a black line on the ceiling. The catacombs are famous for their historical significance and thought-provoking ambiance.
Unique Reactions to the Catacombs
People's reactions to the catacombs vary. Some individuals may find the experience underwhelming, while others may be fascinated or moved by the sight of human remains organized in such a manner. The atmosphere, lighting, and the presence of inscriptions and sculptures made from bones contribute to the overall effect. Notably, the catacombs have captivated visitors for centuries, inspiring both awe and contemplation.
Future of the Catacombs
The catacombs in Paris are no longer accepting new bones, and there are no plans for future transfers. While there are still areas of underground tunnels to explore, they are not accessible to the general public. However, the catacombs remain a significant historical and cultural landmark in Paris, attracting tourists from around the world.
Process of Turning Bones into Glass
In the podcast, the speaker discusses Pierre Giraud's 1801 book, 'The Tombs: Essay on the Graves,' where he describes a process of turning bones into glass. Giraud explains that a furnace would be built, and the bones, after being treated to separate the flesh and fat, would be vitrified or classified into a glass-like substance resembling Chinese porcelain. Giraud suggests that this glass could then be used to create sculptures or even bricks and plates for various purposes. He also mentions the quick turnaround time, with bones being vitrified into glass in just a few hours.
Exploring the Catacombs: Safety, Archaeology, and Parties
The podcast delves into various aspects of the catacombs, including questions about safety measures, archaeological research, and parties. It is mentioned that there is a specialized police force that patrols the catacombs to ensure safety and prevent vandalism. While no recent incidents of accidents or getting lost are mentioned, there have been historical cases of people getting lost or caving accidents. Regarding archaeological research, it is discussed that the catacombs have been explored extensively and that there is a strong community of individuals called 'cataphiles' who are constantly exploring the tunnels. As for parties in the catacombs, it is explained that there have been historical instances of musical performances and that today, underground raves and movie screenings are held in certain sections of the catacombs, adding to the allure and macabre appeal of the space.
Let’s get spooky. Venture below Parisian streets and into the catacombs: hundreds of miles of subterranean tunnels housing millions of human skeletons, some fashioned into sculpture. Alie tracked down Dr. Erin-Marie Legacey – author of “Making Space for the Dead,” professor of French history and one of the world’s foremost experts on this eerie place. We chat about everything from miasmas to sinkholes, boggling cemetery history, smells, skulls, hidden chambers, (very) underground parties, and how we view our bodies post-life. Also: Alie takes a trip to see them herself.
Dr. Legacy’s book, “Making Space for the Dead: Catacombs, Cemeteries, and the Reimagining of Paris, 1780-1830” on Bookshop.org and Amazon
