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Notre-Dame Crypt Tickets

Notre Dame Paris TicketsNotre-Dame Archeological Crypt

The Archaeological Crypt of Notre-Dame offers a fascinating journey beneath the streets of Paris, where history comes alive through preserved ruins and artifacts. Located just in front of the cathedral, the crypt reveals layers of the city’s past, showcasing remnants from ancient Roman settlements to the foundations of medieval Paris. This underground treasure trove provides visitors with a unique perspective on the evolution of the Île de la Cité, blending history, archaeology, and architecture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Paris’s origins, the crypt is an unmissable stop for uncovering the hidden stories beneath Notre-Dame.

Overview of the Crypt

  • Purpose: The crypt preserves archaeological remains, such as Roman foundations and medieval remnants, uncovered during excavations in the 1960s, providing insight into Paris's history from Roman times to the present.
  • Location: Beneath the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral (Place du Parvis).
  • Opened: In 1980, the crypt was inaugurated as a museum space.



Notre-Dame Archeological Crypt Tickets
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
Guided tour
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Notre-Dame Outdoor Guided Walking Tour with Crypt Entry
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr.
Guided tour
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Notre-Dame Audio Guided Tour
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. - 2 hr.
Audio guide
Guided tour
More details
Outdoor Guided Walking Tour of Notre-Dame with Optional Sainte-Chapelle Tickets or Seine River Cruise
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. - 2 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
More details
Eternal Notre-Dame VR Experience Tickets
Extended validity
Mobile ticket
45 min.
More details
from
€30.99
Notre-Dame Secret Food Tour
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
3 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
More details
From Notre-Dame: Sidecar Tour of Paris
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
40 min.
Guided tour
More details
Notre Dame & the Île de La Cité Guided Walking Tour + Sainte Chapelle Tickets (Optional)
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.
Guided tour
More details
from
€35.70
Île de la Cité and Latin Quarter Guided Tour with Seine River Cruise
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
3 hr.
More details
Tootbus: Paris Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
More details
from
€38.25

Plan your visit to the crypt

Tickets
Operating hours
Location
Accessibility
Guidelines
  • Standard admission: There is usually a small entry fee, though prices may vary. Discounts for children, students, and seniors are often available.
  • Free entry: Entry is typically free for those under 18 years (EU residents) and EU residents under 26 years of age.
  • Tuesday to Sunday: 10am to 6pm 
  • Last entry 30 minutes before closing
  • Closed on Mondays and certain holidays like May 1 and December 25.

  • The entrance is typically located on the north side of the square, near the steps leading underground. It's a short walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral and is often less crowded than the cathedral itself.
  • Find on maps.
  • Wheelchair access: The crypt is accessible to people with reduced mobility via ramps, though be aware that it is underground, and certain areas may have narrow or uneven pathways.
  • Stairs: There may be stairs at the entrance, though they are typically accompanied by a ramp or lift for accessibility.
  • The crypt contains valuable archaeological remains and artifacts. Do not touch or disturb the objects on display.
  • To protect the historical artifacts and maintain cleanliness, food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the Crypt. Please consume these items in designated areas before or after your visit.
  • Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the crypt and in the immediate surrounding area for safety and health reasons.
  • Touching the archaeological artifacts and displays is prohibited for the preservation of the exhibits and the safety of all visitors.
  • As a space with historical and archaeological significance, maintain a respectful tone and behavior inside the Crypt.
  • In general, photography is allowed in the crypt, but flash photography and tripods may be prohibited. Always check signs for any specific rules when you arrive.

Key features of the Crypt

Preserved ruins

The crypt houses the remains of structures dating back to ancient Roman times, as well as later periods. These include parts of Roman fortifications, medieval structures, and remnants of 18th- and 19th-century Paris.

Historical layers

Visitors can explore the different layers of Paris's history, showcasing how the city evolved over two millennia—from the Roman settlement of Lutetia to the medieval and modern city.

Interactive exhibits

The crypt features exhibitions with models, maps, and multimedia displays explaining the development of Paris through the centuries.

Notre-Dame connection

It also provides information about the history of Notre-Dame Cathedral and its role in Parisian history.

Modern additions

The Crypt includes displays about Notre Dame's restoration efforts following the 2019 fire, making it a living historical site that connects the past with ongoing preservation efforts.

History

Ancient era

  • 1st century BCE: The Romans establish the city of Lutetia on the Île de la Cité.
  • Foundations for public buildings, roads, and a port along the Seine are constructed.
  • Evidence of Roman fortifications and thermal baths are later uncovered in the crypt.

Medieval period (5th–15th century)

  • 5th century: Lutetia transitions into medieval Paris after the fall of the Roman Empire.
  • 12th–14th century: Notre-Dame Cathedral is constructed, and the surrounding area becomes the heart of Paris. The crypt area becomes a bustling hub of medieval activity.

Modern era (18th–19th century)

  • 18th century: Urban development reshapes the Île de la Cité. Medieval streets and structures are replaced by modern designs.
  • 1858–1868: Under the direction of Baron Haussmann, Paris undergoes major renovations, including the redesign of the square in front of Notre-Dame. Archaeological remains beneath the square remain hidden.

20th century

  • 1965–1970: Excavations conducted during the construction of an underground parking lot reveal significant archaeological finds beneath the square. The discoveries include remnants of Roman roads and fortifications and the foundations of medieval and 18th-century buildings.
  • 1980: The Crypte Archéologique de l’Île de la Cité opens to the public, becoming a museum showcasing the findings.

21st century

  • 2019: The crypt is temporarily closed after the Notre-Dame fire due to safety concerns and to protect the artifacts.

The Crypt today

Today, the Crypte Archéologique de l’Île de la Cité, or Crypt of Notre-Dame, serves as an important archaeological site and museum that reveals the rich, layered history of Paris, particularly the Île de la Cité. While the crypt primarily focuses on the historical and archaeological discoveries beneath the Notre-Dame Cathedral, it also highlights the ongoing restoration of the cathedral itself.

Frequently asked questions about the Crypt tickets

How long does the visit to the crypt take?

A typical visit to the crypt lasts around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the exhibits. It's a relatively compact site but offers rich historical insight.

Is the crypt open year-round?

Yes, the crypt is usually open year-round, but it may close for special events, maintenance, or unforeseen circumstances. It’s always good to check the official website or social media channels for any updates or changes to opening hours.

Can I enter Notre-Dame Cathedral with a Crypt ticket?

Entry to the Notre-Dame Cathedral is free of cost and can be entered anytime within the operating hours. A separate ticket would need to be purchased to enter the Crypt.