From catacomb mazes to a rising skyscraper, experience the darkest depths and dizzying heights of the Arrondissement of the Observatory.
The 14th Arrondissement is a place of exploration and reflection. Its iconic tower and observatory encourage you to search the skies, while the cemetery and catacombs involve a deeper level of introspection. Contemplate the brooding atmosphere of this zone’s main attractions over a glass of wine at a lively café.
Rise to the top of Montparnasse Tower for spectacular views of Paris. The tall office building is a less crowded alternative to the Eiffel Tower, visible from the roof. Take the elevator to the 56th floor for shopping and viewing. Snap photos of the city panorama.
Cast your gaze upward while touring the Observatory, which dates back to the 1600s and one of the oldest still in operation. Learn about its importance to the city and its location on the Paris meridian that once rivaled Antwerp and Greenwich for the world standard.
Complementing the airy views of the tower and observatory are intriguing subterranean tunnels of the Catacombs of Paris containing more than 6 million burials. Learn about placement of remains here after removal from overcrowded cemeteries in the 18th century. Enjoy the spooky atmosphere in the dark tunnels with skulls and bones lining the walls.
Next door is the Montparnasse Cemetery, which holds the remains of historical figures such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Serge Gainsbourg, Samuel Beckett and Simone de Beauvoir.
The zone also offers plenty of vivacity in the form of the Montsouris Park in the southern section. Admire the bright colours of the floral displays around the large lake and waterfalls. Relax with a picnic on the lawn in these blissful surroundings. Note the bronze statues as you meander past ginkgo and sequoia trees.
The arrondissement is in the Montparnasse region in the southern part of Paris, just south of the Luxembourg Garden in the 6th Arrondissement. Take Line 6 of the metro or ride the RER to reach the zone.
Up, down and all around, your eyes will never tyre of the views in the 14th Arrondissement.
