Why Were the Paris Catacombs Built? Uncover Their Secrets
Why were the Paris Catacombs built ? This question leads us to a dark yet fascinating chapter of Parisian history. By the late 18th century, Paris was facing a public health crisis due to overcrowded cemeteries, particularly the Cemetery of the Innocents, where bodies were stacked in mass graves. The decomposition of these remains contaminated local water sources, leading to foul odors and disease outbreaks. In this blog, we will explore the reasons behind the construction of the Paris Catacombs, the historical context, and what visitors can expect when exploring this eerie underground world. The Public Health Crisis in Paris In the late 1700s, Paris was a bustling city filled with people. However, the rapid population growth outpaced the capacity of the city’s cemeteries. The Cemetery of the Innocents, established in the 12th century, had long been a burial site for Parisians, including the poor, the affluent, and even victims of plague. By the late 18th century, the cemetery ha...