The Crypte Archéologique de Notre Dame is a crypt in which archaeological finds from ancient Paris are shown, ranging from ancient times to the 19th century.
This activity may seem kind o creepy but it way better than it sounds. If you liked the Catacombs of Paris, you will love this activity as well. It is like discovering hidden treasures is mysterious places.
In this guide to the Crypte Archéologique Paris you will find out everything about the exhibition, history, tickets, tours as well as helpful information on how to get there.
What can I do at the Crypte Archéologique Paris?
The Crypte Archéologique Paris is located 80 meters under the square in front of the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral. Visitors can discover more than 2000 years of Parisian history in the crypt, which extends around 200 meters. Numerous finds that were accidentally found during excavations between 1965 and 1972 are on display.
Among the finds are unique archaeological remains that illustrate the architectural and urban development of the Île de la Cité, the historic center of Paris.
You can see ruins of the ancient city of Paris, Gallo-Roman artifacts and buildings from different epochs : from antiquity through the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
Highlights include remains of the Roman city walls, a Gallo-Roman bath house, and ruins of the old port of Lutetia, the Gallo-Roman city from which today's Paris developed.
Temporary Exhibitions at the Crypt
Temporary exhibitions are regularly held in the crypt.
Activities at the Crypt
Various activities, which are specially tailored to adults, visitors with a disability, families and children, are also organized in the crypt. For example, visitors can discover the ancient remains as part of a guided tour or visit the current exhibition. There are also concerts and 3D animations.
Further information can be found on the website of the crypt, linked below.
Entrance, Tickets and Tours
How to get to the Crypte Archéologique Paris?
The Crypte Archéologique de Notre Dame is located in the 4th arrondissement, in the Notre-Dame quarter. The entrance to the crypt can be found on the forecourt of Notre Dame Cathedral.
The easiest way to get to the crypt is by taking the metro line 4 to the “Cité” or “Saint-Michel” station. Alternatively, you can take the bus lines 21, 24, 27, 38, 47, 85 or 96.
More information about Public Transports in Paris.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
The regular opening times of the Crypte Archéologique Paris are from Tuesday till Sunday from 10 to 18. For the lastest information about opening hours, please consult the official website of the crypt.
Visitors under 18, people with disabilities and holders of the Paris Museum Pass are eligible for free entry. All other visitors to the Crypte Archéologique Paris pay entrance fees. The full rate is € 9, the reduced ticket € 7.
The Crypte Archéologique Paris is in the 4th arrondissement, in the Notre-Dame quarter. It is located 80 meters beneath the Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral square. The entrance to the crypt can be found on the forecourt of Notre Dame Cathedral. The address of the crypt is: Crypte archéologique de l'île de la Cité, 7, place Jean-Paul II Parvis Notre-Dame, 75 004 Paris
The easiest way to get to the Crypte Archéologique Paris is by taking the metro line 4 to the “Cité” or “Saint-Michel” station. Alternatively, you can also take the bus lines 21, 24, 27, 38, 47, 85 or 96.
History of the Crypte Archéologique of Paris
The Crypte Archéologique de l'île de la Cité (also Crypte Archéologique de Notre-Dame or Crypte Archéologique Paris) under the forecourt of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, dates from the first centuries after Christ.
It was discovered between 1965 and 1972 during excavations for the construction of a parking garage.
In order to present the archaeological finds that were discovered during the excavation work, the crypt was rebuilt in 1980. As one of the oldest crypts of mankind, the Crypte Archéologique Paris is one of the most interesting museums in Paris today.