Category: History > Catacombs
The catacombs of Paris, a labyrinth of underground tunnels and ossuaries, are often associated with the macabre and the mysteries of death. However, their origins are deeply rooted in the practices of ancient Rome. In the early centuries of the Common Era, the Romans began to practice burial outside the city limits due to health concerns and the need for space. This led to the creation of extensive catacombs, where the dead were interred in elaborate burial chambers. Centuries later, when Paris faced a similar issue of overcrowded cemeteries, city officials decided to transfer the bones of millions of Parisians to the abandoned limestone quarries beneath the city. Thus, the Paris catacombs emerged as a homage to the Roman practice, showcasing a unique blend of historical influences that underline the continuous evolution of burial practices through the ages.