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Description
Located in the 4th arrondissement, the Archaeological Crypt of the Paris Notre-Dame is a hidden gem that offers visitors a glimpse into Paris’ medieval past. As an archaeological museum, it showcases the remains of the city’s ancient buildings and streets that date back to the Gallo-Roman period.
The Crypt is situated beneath the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a great example of Gothic architecture and one of the most visited landmarks in Paris. Built in the 13th century, the Paris Notre-Dame is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions.
The Crypt’s exhibits are arranged chronologically, starting with the remains of a Gallo-Roman bathhouse discovered during the cathedral’s construction. Visitors can then walk through the remains of the original Notre-Dame Cathedral, which was built on the same site in the 4th century.
One of the highlights of the Crypt is the interactive exhibit that allows visitors to see how Paris’ streets and buildings evolved. The exhibit features a large-scale model of the city that shows the different layers of construction, from the Roman era to the present day.
In addition to the exhibits, the Crypt hosts temporary exhibitions exploring different aspects of Paris’ history. Recent exhibitions have focused on medieval medicine and the history of Paris’ water supply.
Key Features
- The museum showcases ancient, medieval, and more recent remains found under Notre Dame, including an interactive exhibit featuring a large-scale model of the city that demonstrates the evolution of Paris’ streets and buildings over time.
- Visitors can explore the remains of the original Notre-Dame Cathedral, built on the same site in the 4th century, and view exhibits arranged in chronological order, starting with the remains of a Gallo-Roman bathhouse discovered during the cathedral’s construction.
Hours and Admissions
- Opening Hours: The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday, with special hours for holidays or events.
- Admission Fees: There is an admission fee of $10 for adults, with discounted rates for students and seniors. Free admission is available for children under 12 and on the first Sunday of each month.
Accessibility and Amenities
- The museum is equipped with accessibility features to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and audio guides.
- Amenities include restrooms, a gift shop, and a dining option, with unique services such as coat check and guided tours available.
Planning Your Visit
- The best times to visit are weekday afternoons, as weekends tend to be busier. Visitors typically spend 1-2 hours exploring the museum, with recommended itineraries highlighting the interactive exhibit and the remains of the original Notre-Dame Cathedral.