Unearthing the Past: The Archaeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité
Explore the Archaeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité and discover the captivating history hidden beneath Paris's iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral.
The Archaeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité is a hidden gem located just beneath the renowned Notre-Dame Cathedral, providing a fascinating glimpse into the depths of Paris's storied past. This archaeological site allows visitors to traverse through centuries of history, showcasing an extensive collection of artifacts and remains that date back to Roman times. As you walk through the crypt, you'll encounter ancient streets, remnants of buildings, and various objects that illuminate the daily life of Parisians from different eras. The crypt is not just a showcase of relics; it is an immersive experience that offers insights into the evolution of Paris as a city. Guided tours are available, enriching your visit with detailed narratives about the significance of the artifacts and the historical context surrounding them. The layout is designed to facilitate exploration, with informative displays and interactive elements that engage visitors of all ages. Additionally, the location itself is steeped in historical significance, as it lies on the Ile de la Cité, one of the oldest parts of Paris. After your journey through the crypt, you can step outside to admire the breathtaking architecture of Notre-Dame and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding area, filled with cafes, shops, and stunning views of the Seine. Whether you're a history buff or a casual traveler, the Archaeological Crypt provides a unique opportunity to connect with Paris's rich heritage in an unforgettable setting.
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
- Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits.
- Allocate at least an hour to fully appreciate the crypt's displays.
- Check the official website for any special exhibitions or events during your visit.
- Bring a camera, as photography is allowed in most areas of the crypt.
A brief summary to Archaeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité
- 7 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, Paris, 75004, FR
- +33155425010
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Picardy, head south on the A1 motorway towards Paris. After about 1.5 to 2 hours, take the exit toward Boulevard Périphérique (the Paris ring road). Follow the signs for the city center and continue onto the Quai de la Tournelle. Keep following the road along the Seine River until you reach the Île de la Cité. There are parking facilities nearby, but expect to pay around €2-4 per hour. The Archaeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité is located at 7 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, right near Notre-Dame Cathedral.
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Train
To reach the Archaeological Crypt via public transportation, take a train from any station in Picardy to Paris Gare du Nord. The journey typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. From Gare du Nord, transfer to the Paris Metro Line 4 (direction Mairie de Montrouge) and get off at the station 'Cité'. Exit the station and walk towards the Île de la Cité. The crypt is a short 5-minute walk from the station, located at 7 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris. A one-way train ticket costs approximately €15-25 depending on your departure station.
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Bus
You can also take a bus from various locations in Picardy to central Paris. Look for intercity bus services that connect to Paris, such as FlixBus or BlaBlaBus. Once you arrive at a central bus station like Bercy Seine, take the Metro Line 6 to 'Bercy' station, then transfer to Line 14 (direction Saint-Lazare) and get off at 'Châtelet'. From Châtelet, you can walk to the Île de la Cité in about 10 minutes. The total cost for a bus ticket ranges from €5-15 depending on the service.
Attractions Nearby to Archaeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité
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Place Jean-Paul II
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Espace Notre Dame - Éternelle Notre-Dame
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Parvis Notre Dame - Place Jean-Paul II
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Statue de Charlemagne et ses leudes
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Petit Pont - Cardinal Lustiger
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Point zéro des routes de France
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Shakespeare and Company
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Shakespeare Library
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Narrowest street in Paris
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Île de la Cité
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Le Caveau de la Huchette
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Fontaine Saint Julien Le Pauvre
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Square René Viviani
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Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II de Paris
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Café Panis.
Landmarks nearby to Archaeological Crypt of the Ile de la Cité
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Crypte Archéologique de l'İle de la Cité
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Pont au Double
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Memorial to The Massacre of October 17th, 1961
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Pont Notre-Dame
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Place du Châtelet
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Square of Saint-Jacques Tower
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Tour Saint-Jacques
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GuideMe Paris - free walking tour
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SANDEMANs NEW Europe
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Parisology
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Pont Neuf
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Le Mur des justes
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Equestrian Statue of Henri IV
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Rohan Court
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Jacques De Molay (Knight Templar) Memorial