Crypte Archéologique, Paris, France, will be that wonderful place that will take you back to the origins of the French population. In this way, this place will delight you with its underground room and meters of depth. Also, you will be able to learn a lot from the construction of Nice. For those who love history, this is the place to be.
Things to do
Ancient Period
You’ll begin your journey by transporting yourself back to the old days. As soon as you enter the crypt, you will get to know what the Gallo-Roman city of Lutetia was like during the reign of Augustus. In this tour, you will be able to contemplate different house’s remains of the wealthy classes. These date back to the 3rd century. There, you will be able to admire thick walls and columns, as well as the remains of the thermal baths.
Middle Ages
All the secrets of the Middle Ages are hidden inside this crypt. Here, you can learn about the construction history of the cathedral that emerges above it. Also, the various wells and remains of medieval buildings still preserve their remains there. Your guide will also tell you all the stories of the medieval architecture that gave rise to these crypts. Also, you will have the opportunity to observe the typical shops of this time.
Modern Age
After exploring the ancient secrets, you can enter the Modern Age. Here you can learn about the different medieval constructions of the 18th century. Also, you will discover what the living conditions of the ancient Parisians were like. Likewise, you will find remains of the walls of the Enfants-Touvés hospice.
How to get there
There are three main ways to get to the Crypte Achéologuique in the Cathedral of Notre Dame from the Paris Orly Airport (ORY):
- By Train: at first, you’ll take the train in Orly 4 to Anthony and then, to Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame. Over there, you can walk to the Cathedral. This has a price of $12 to 13 USD. On the other hand, you can take it at Aeroport D’orly to La Fraternelle, there, you transfer to Rungis and go to St Michel. Here, you’ll spend from $6 to 8 USD.
- By bus: take the bus at Aeroport D’orly 4 to Denfert-Rochereau-Metro. Over there you’ll change to Denfert Rochereau train station to Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame. Finally, you’ll walk to the Cathedral. Is a 39-minute journey of $10 to 11 USD. You can also take the night bus to Notre-Dame – Quai De Montebello Station. it is an hour trip of $3.
- By Taxi: it is a 17-minute journey to the Cathedral. It has a price of $35 to 45 USD.
When to go
This place is perfect to visit all year-round.
How long
The visit to the crypt takes around 45-minutes or an hour. However, I recommend you to spend at least a day to truly enjoy the place and the other nearby attractions.
Opening and Closing Hours
This place opens every day from 10 am to 6 pm. However, the Crypt tours are only offered on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
Planning
In this place, it is important that you book in advance. At least, you should be booking with two or three days in advance. However, you’ll have access to the permanent collections for free.
Inside Information
It is important that when you visit this place you are fluent in English or have a B1 or B2 level of French. Also, You mustn’t touch any of the treasures that you see, remember that they are antiquated and very unstable. On the other hand, this museum is adapted for people with reduced mobility. In this way, wheelchair tours are possible.
Inside this place, it is possible to use mobile telephones, consume food and drink. There are even smoking areas.
History
The archeological crypt holds remains from many eras. Here you will find remains of Gallo-Roman halls, medieval streets, and even 19th-century foundations. Numerous excavation campaigns have been carried out in this area, which has allowed the discovery of remains from Roman and early medieval times.
Nowadays, it is the ideal place to make a marvelous journey. There, you will find remains that are in a perfect state of conservation. It also has an interactive lighting system with visitors.
Websites
Other Nearby Attractions
Le Caveau de la Huchette
If you want a place to have a drink and have fun after an incredible excursion in the Crypt, you can’t miss this spot. There, you will find the ideal location to have a drink with friends. Also, you will enjoy excellent Jazz presentations while having the unique opportunity to dance for a while! Don’t forget to enjoy a super special atmosphere in this place full of history.
Square Jean XXIII
Although the Cathedral is being remodeled, in this square you can enjoy the beautiful gardens around it. In this place, you will be able to enjoy a plot of peace and tranquility. Also, you will have an unbelievable walk that will take you to the bridge with the Island of Saint-Louis. Be sure to visit this lovely garden square as well as enjoy its tranquility and the gorgeous views of the temple.
Holy Chapel
This is a place that will leave you captivated by history in its corridors. Thus, it is said that it was built to house the crown of thorns of Jesus Christ. This building will enchant you from the beauty of its ground floor to the fascinating of its upper floor. In the same way, it will become one of the most spectacular stained glass windows you can see. If you visit Paris, you can’t help but be fascinated by its variety of colors and impressive stained glass windows. You will have a unique experience in this 13th-century masterpiece.
If you loved this article or found it useful, don’t forget to share it with your adventurous and travel-hacking friends! If you want more posts like this, follow us on Youtube, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook or Reddit and subscribe to our newsletter!