Bizarre Instructions Unveiled in the Paris Catacombs: What Tourist Should Know

The Paris Catacombs have long been a site of intrigue and mystery, drawing tourists from around the world to explore its ancient, eerie tunnels. However, recent visitors have shared an unusual set of instructions, which have sparked both amusement and frustration. The poster, prominently displayed within the catacombs, features six circular icons arranged in two columns of three rows each. Each icon is enclosed within red circles with diagonal lines crossing them, signifying prohibition.

1. **No Food or Alcohol**: The top left icon displays a black bottle and stack of books inside a red circle with a diagonal line crossing them out. This clearly indicates that no alcohol and food or drinks are allowed within the catacombs. Visitors should take note to avoid bringing any consumables.

2. **No Backpacks Allowed**: The top right icon showcases a black figure of two people: one wearing a backpack with a cross over it and the other without a backpack with a check mark over its head. This suggests that backpacks are not allowed, while entering without a backpack is permitted. This rule has led to some humorous comments, with one visitor joking about how chest suitcases are the only acceptable option.

3. **Do Not Touch the Skulls**: The middle left icon features a black hand reaching towards a skull, with lines emanating from the hand as if signaling touch or poison. This is crossed out, likely indicating not to touch, or to stay away from dangerous or poison hazards. This rule is particularly important, as reports have surfaced of tourists attempting to steal bones from the catacombs, leading to increased security measures.

4. **No Graffiti or Vandalism**: The middle right icon shows a black skull with a cap, and a marker drawing graffiti on the cap. This is crossed out, indicating that no graffiti or vandalism is allowed. This rule aims to preserve the sanctity of the catacombs and prevent disrespectful behavior.

5. **No Flash Photography**: The bottom left icon depicts a black mobile phone with a bright flash appearing on its screen, crossed out by the red circle. It implies that photos with flash are not allowed, likely to protect the delicate environment and the remains within the catacombs.

6. **Maintain Silence**: The bottom right icon displays a black outline of a human head with a hand in front of it, forefinger raised against the lips, indicative of silence. This is not crossed out but enclosed in a red circle, suggesting that maintaining silence is required. Respect for the resting place of the dead is paramount.

Visitors have shared mixed reactions to these instructions. Some have expressed frustration over the stringent rules, while others have found humor in the absurdity of certain prohibitions, such as the notion that skulls do not emit WiFi and the allowance of nose-picking. One memorable comment highlighted an American tourist's shock at seeing a baby brought into the catacombs, with the parent humorously responding that they wanted their child to "meet the thousands of other babies down here."

Despite the mixed reactions, it is clear that these rules are in place to ensure the preservation and respect of this historic site. The Paris Catacombs continue to be a fascinating destination for those intrigued by history and the macabre, but visitors should be mindful of the guidelines to maintain the sanctity of this unique location.