First operating certificate avant 1492 (≈ 1492)
Documented operation prior to that date.
1815
Attraction of catacombs
Attraction of catacombs 1815 (≈ 1815)
Integrated into tourist tours.
4 janvier 1994
Historical monument classification
Historical monument classification 4 janvier 1994 (≈ 1994)
Official career protection.
1998
Confirmation of classification
Confirmation of classification 1998 (≈ 1998)
Council of State decision.
2003
Acquisition by a promoter
Acquisition by a promoter 2003 (≈ 2003)
Start of property disputes.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Key figures
Antoine Décure - Carrier worker and sculptor
Author of Port-Mahon sculptures.
Origin and history
The quarry of the chemin de Port-Mahon is an underground building stone farm located under 26-30 rue de la Tombe-Issoire and 15-17 villa Saint-Jacques, in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. It is attested before 1492, making it one of the few medieval quarries still preserved under the capital. His name comes from sculptures made by a carrier, Antoine Décure, representing Port-Mahon in Minorque, visible in the galleries adjacent to the catacombs.
Ranked a historic monument in 1994, this quarry is known for its intact state, offering a complete testimony of the techniques of stone extraction at the end of the Middle Ages. In 1815 it was one of the attractions of catacomb visits. Since 2003, it has been owned by a real estate developer, creating conflicts with heritage associations due to surface construction projects.
The Council of State confirmed its ranking in 1998, stressing its exceptional character as the only surviving 14th century Parisian career. Nearby is the farm of Montsouris, the last farm in Paris, sharing the same land. The galleries of the quarry, now closed to the public by a grid, remain a major heritage issue for defenders of the Parisian basement.
