Explore the interconnected stories of the Paris Catacombs and the mines beneath the city, including the challenge of dealing with a large number of dead bodies and the risk of collapsing into the mines during the 18th century. Learn about the use of limestone in construction, mining practices, and the lack of coordination and oversight that led to collapses and fatalities. This chapter also delves into the efforts to inspect and reinforce the mines for safety, as well as the ideas of reform and change in society during the French Revolution regarding the treatment of bodies after death.
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Quick takeaways
The Paris Catacombs were created as a solution to overcrowded cemeteries and unstable mining activities in 18th century Paris.
The relocation of bodies from the catacombs led to a rethinking of burial practices and the emergence of garden cemeteries.
Deep dives
Cemetery overcrowding and collapsing city risk
In 18th century Paris, the city faced the challenges of overcrowded cemeteries and a risk of collapsing buildings due to extensive mining. As the city grew and expanded, burial space became insufficient, leading to mass graves and unsanitary conditions. Additionally, the mining activities underneath the city caused unstable foundations, resulting in frequent collapses. The situation reached a peak between 1774 and 1778 when several major collapses occurred. The city government responded by closing the mines and implementing measures to stabilize the structures.
Relocating bodies to the catacombs
In the late 18th century, the decision was made to relocate the bodies from overcrowded cemeteries to the catacombs, which were part of the underground mining network in Paris. The process of moving bodies started in December 1785 and lasted for years. The catacombs were consecrated as the Paris Municipal Ossuary in 1786, and the remains of over 20,000 people were transferred there. Initially, the bones were simply piled up, but in 1809, efforts were made to arrange them in a more organized manner, creating the catacombs as they are known today.
Development of garden cemeteries
The relocation of bodies from the catacombs prompted a rethinking of burial practices in Paris. The concept of garden cemeteries emerged, providing a sanitary and aesthetically pleasing way to bury the dead. The Père Lachaise Cemetery, opened in 1804, was the first garden cemetery in France and served as a model for similar cemeteries elsewhere. These cemeteries were designed to integrate nature and promote a sense of tranquility and contemplation. The reimagining of burial spaces reflected changing post-revolutionary ideas of equality and community.
The ongoing fascination with the catacombs
The catacombs continue to captivate visitors as a unique tourist attraction. The organized arrangement of bones and the solemn atmosphere inspire reflection on mortality and the equality of all people in death. While restricted access is enforced to ensure safety, a subculture of catacomb enthusiasts, known as catafiles, has emerged with their own set of rules and exploration methods. Despite their historical significance and cultural impact, the catacombs still pose risks, including collapsing passages and a maze-like layout.
This 2019 episode notes that the Catacombs contain the bones of an estimated 6 to 7 million people, and explains that their history is really two interconnected stories of mines and human remains.