Stuff You Should Know: Episode Summary – The Catacombs of Paris
Episode Title: The Catacombs of Paris
Hosts: Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Production: iHeartPodcasts
Introduction to the Paris Catacombs
In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant delve deep into the enigmatic underground tunnels of Paris, famously known as the Catacombs. They explore the history, architecture, cultural significance, and modern-day mysteries of these subterranean passages beneath the City of Light.
Historical Origins and Purpose
Formation of the Tunnels
Josh initiates the discussion by highlighting the extensive network of tunnels beneath Paris, stating, “Paris is sitting on top of a vast network of tunnels” (07:43). Chuck elaborates on the geological history, explaining that during the Lutetian period, erosion events led to the formation of Parisian limestone, which was extensively mined over the past two millennia. This mining activity resulted in the creation of over 300 kilometers of tunnels, comparable to “32 square kilometers” of underground space (07:53; 08:22).
Cemetery Overcrowding and the Ossuary Solution
By the late 18th century, Paris faced a severe overcrowding of cemeteries, leading to public health crises. Chuck narrates how King Louis XVI established the Inspection Générale des Carrières (IGC) in 1777 to oversee the stabilization of the underground quarries and address the "millions body problem" by relocating remains from overcrowded graves to the abandoned tunnels (10:37; 11:29). This transformation officially consecrated the Catacombs as an ossuary in April 1786, a term chosen for its macabre allure over the more clinical "Paris Ossuary" (12:45).
Architectural and Artistic Elements
Bone Stacking and Artistic Displays
Josh and Chuck discuss the unique way bodies were transferred and organized within the Catacombs. Chuck recounts how, under the supervision of a quarry inspector named Louis Étienne, bones were meticulously arranged into decorative patterns, creating walls of stacked femurs, tibias, and skulls with “eye sockets facing out” (13:07; 14:18). This artistic endeavor transformed the Catacombs into a haunting yet fascinating exhibition of human remnants.
Notable Structures within the Catacombs
The hosts describe various chambers, such as “La Plage” (30:11), which features a sandy floor and painted beach scenes, evoking eerie parallels to the Lost Boys' hideout in the Peter Pan narrative. They also mention the underground reservoir beneath the Paris Opera House, an architectural feat designed to manage water infiltration during construction, which inspired elements of The Phantom of the Opera (38:38; 39:04).
Cultural Impact and Modern Usage
Tourist Attraction and Accessibility
Josh shares his personal experience visiting the Catacombs with his family, highlighting the surreal encounter when his niece mistook the bones for “boobs,” illustrating how the mind can become desensitized to the macabre details (04:10). The Catacombs have long been a tourist attraction, officially opened to the public since Napoleon's time in 1809. Today, visitors navigate through the tunnels via spiral staircases, experiencing the constant “sodium light” that casts an orangish hue, enhancing the eerie atmosphere (26:16; 27:04).
Unauthorized Access and Cataphiles
Josh and Chuck delve into the subculture of "cataphiles" – urban explorers who illegally traverse the Catacombs. These enthusiasts have historically used the tunnels for various clandestine activities, including parties, movie screenings, and even setting up secret theaters like the one established by the group Le Mexican de la Perforation (32:27; 36:02). The hosts discuss the organized efforts by the Cataflix, a special police detachment, to monitor and prevent unauthorized access, emphasizing the ongoing tension between preserving the Catacombs and the rebellious spirit of the cataphiles (36:02; 37:14).
Paranormal Tales and Legends
Ghost Stories
Adding to the mystique, Josh and Chuck recount ghost stories associated with the Catacombs. One prominent tale involves Philibert Aspert, a military hospital worker who supposedly got lost with his candle in the late 18th century. Legend has it that his spirit welcomes the living with the words “Bienvenue” as his candle flickers out (45:37; 46:33).
Suspicious Videos and Modern Myths
They also touch on viral videos, such as a 2017 footage of a person allegedly getting lost in the tunnels, which remains unverified and likely fictional. These stories contribute to the Catacombs' reputation as a place of both historical significance and supernatural intrigue (47:05; 47:09).
Criminal Activities and Preservation Efforts
Theft and Vandalism
The Catacombs have not been immune to criminal activities. In 2017, thieves reportedly stole over a quarter-million dollars' worth of wine stored in a cave by a winery, highlighting the ongoing issues of security and preservation (44:59; 45:13). Additionally, bone theft has been a persistent problem, often driven by demand from medical students and collectors (45:18; 45:24).
Maintenance and Structural Integrity
Chuck emphasizes the IGC's longstanding role in maintaining the structural integrity of the Catacombs since their establishment in 1777. Efforts to shore up tunnels have been crucial in preventing collapses, although occasional sinkholes still pose risks (09:14; 37:16).
Media Representations and Inspirations
Influence on Literature and Games
The Catacombs have inspired various forms of media. The hosts reference The Phantom of the Opera, where the Phantom resides in an underground lake, a concept mirrored by the actual reservoir under the Opera House. Additionally, the video game Assassin’s Creed Unity features the Catacombs, blending historical elements with fictional narratives (38:38; 40:16).
Photography and Early Documentation
Chuck mentions Felix Nadar, a pioneering 19th-century photographer, who utilized the Catacombs for some of his first artificial light photographs, capturing the eerie essence of the tunnels (41:45; 42:03).
Conclusion and Reflections
Josh and Chuck conclude the episode by reflecting on their experiences and the multifaceted nature of the Catacombs. They appreciate the site not only for its historical and architectural marvels but also for its ongoing allure to adventurers and storytellers alike. Chuck humorously mentions corrections from listeners regarding historical inaccuracies, underscoring the importance of accurate storytelling in their explorations (48:00; 50:35).
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Clark (07:43): “Paris is sitting on top of a vast network of tunnels.”
- Charles W. Chuck Bryant (10:16): “We're going to start moving bodies out of here. We have a millions body problem.”
- Josh Clark (04:10): “They're like boobs, right? She said, I would be if these were real.”
- Charles W. Chuck Bryant (13:07): “A skull should be known as a head bone.”
- Josh Clark (26:16): “It's just a weird place to be.”
- Charles W. Chuck Bryant (36:02): “Those qualified candidates... you can feel confident that you're gonna be getting the best.”
Final Thoughts
The episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the Paris Catacombs, blending historical facts with cultural anecdotes and personal experiences. Josh and Chuck provide listeners with a vivid portrayal of one of Paris's most intriguing and haunting landmarks, making it a must-listen for history enthusiasts, urban explorers, and fans of the macabre alike.
For more insightful discussions and deep dives into fascinating topics, listen to Stuff You Should Know on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or your preferred podcast platform.