When you think of Paris, do visions of the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre come to mind? Paris offers many well-known restaurants, monuments, and historic sites, but there are plenty of lesser-visited sites that are just as amazing as the popular ones. If you are planning a trip to the City of Light, be sure to include these points of interest on your itinerary.
The Catacombs of Paris
If you are brave, pay a visit to the Catacombs of Paris. Enter this underground realm and you will be among the spooky remains of six million people. While this attraction is gaining popularity, it is still one of the lesser-known sites in Paris. Weekend mornings are the least busy time to visit the bone-clad tunnels; the catacombs were originally developed because cemeteries were too full.
59 Rivoli
Art-lovers don’t want to miss a visit to 59 Rivoli. After your obligatory visit to the Mona Lisa, be sure to stop by 59 Rivoli for an exciting look into the city’s fringe art scene. 59 Rivoli was a central gathering place for artists back in the 1800s. Today, you can enter this wild retreat to admire local art or attend a concert. Over thirty artists have exhibits in this off the wall venue. What was once an abandoned building occupied by underground artists is now a welcoming creative space and concert venue for everyone to enjoy.
Lionel Allorge [CC BY-SA 3.0]
The Man Trapped in the Wall
The man trapped in the wall is by far one of the most interesting sights to see in Paris. This statue is placed in the center of a stone wall; the man’s head, arms, and one leg are coming out of the wall, while the rest of his body remains trapped. The statue is based on the French story, “Le Passe-Muraille” by Marcel Aymé. When M. Dutilleul discovers he can pass through walls, he becomes cocky with his power and eventually becomes permanently trapped. You can find M. Dutilleul in his place in Montmartre, an artistic village with luxury Parisian real estate for sale.
Guilhem Vellut from Paris, France [CC BY 2.0]
Point Zero
Point zero is the ultimate place to go for special wishes and first kisses. If you want to propose to your sweetheart in Paris, take them to Point Zero instead of the Eiffel Tower for a more intimate setting. Many people make wishes or leave coins on the Point Zero plate. It can be hard to spot, as the marking plate is sunken into the ground, but you can find it near Notre Dame.
Jean-Pierre Bazard Jpbazard [CC BY-SA 3.0]
Paris is rich with so many things to see and do. From its vibrant art scene to its tasty culinary creations, you could wander this city for months and always see something new. Be sure to add these “underground” attractions to your must-see list.