A stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, right under our feet, lies one of the most unusual museums in Paris (and probably in the world)… and almost no one knows about it.

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Of all the museums in Paris, we can bet our bottom dollar that this one won’t be the first one that comes to mind. The sewer museum, located 3 meters below our feet, traces more than 200 years of history on the creation and operation of the 2,600 km of sewers. Completely renovated in 2021 after three years of renovation, the museum offers visitors a completely redesigned experience: more interactive, more modern… Shall we give you a tour?

A completely unusual museum in Paris

unusual museum Paris

Who would have thought that a museum was literally right under our feet? The Paris Sewer Museum is a fascinating place to learn a little more about the City of Light (or rather its sewage system…).It’s an impressive network,stretching nearly 3,000 km, almost all of which was built during the 19th century. In fact, during the 1867 World’s Fair, a tour of the Paris sewers was part of the itinerary, allowing visitors to observe one of the most modern networks of the century. This “curiosity” even inspired eminent artists such as Victor Hugo, who called it “the intestine of the Leviathan”:

“The sewer is the conscience of the city. Everything converges and confronts each other there.” Victor Hugo

“Entrance to the public tour of the sewers at Place du Châtelet”
©Assainissement/Ville de Paris

On the current tour, visitors will discover a 500-meter gallery that will take them back in time, 200 years ago. You will be able to discover installations that are still operational, the profession of sewer workers and its importance in securing the network and its daily maintenance,but also the surprising fauna of the depths….

unusual museum Paris

Until March 9, don’t miss the exhibition “Habits d’égoutiers” (Sewer Workers’ Clothing), which offers a fun overview of all the equipment used by sewer workers throughout the centuries: photos, objects, clothing… A touching testimony to this extraordinary, sometimes dangerous, yet essential profession!