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Catacombs Indianapolis is an underground network of caves, passages and chambers located beneath the city of Indianapolis. It was created in 1821 and opened to the public in 1823 as a popular tourist attraction.

The Catacombs have been used for many purposes over the years, including scientific exploration, mining, storage, photography and even a speakeasy during Prohibition. It is currently owned by Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), who use it for educational purposes. The Catacombs are also open to the public for special events throughout the year.

The Catacombs were originally mined from the soft limestone bedrock near White River, which runs through Downtown Indianapolis . They consist of two levels – the upper level is approximately 35 feet deep and extends for about one mile in length; while the lower level is much deeper and extends for miles in all directions. It’s estimated that there are more than 200 rooms and chambers within these levels, ranging from empty chambers to fully-furnished rooms with furniture dating back to the 1800s.

The Catacombs feature spectacular views of downtown Indianapolis including Monument Circle, Soldiers' & Sailors' Monument and other historic buildings around this area. The walls of this underground world are lined with stalactites and stalagmites made from calcite deposits left behind over time by water dripping down from above ground. There are also several interesting rock formations such as hollow columns known as “Finger Pillars” due to their resemblance to human fingers reaching up from below ground.

In addition to its natural sights, the Catacombs also house several artifacts from its history including old bottles, tools used by miners during excavations, paintings and sculptures left behind by visitors who came before us. Additionally, many species of bats inhabit these deep tunnels providing an extra element of surprise when exploring these mysterious passageways!

These days visitors can explore parts of these underground labyrinths with guided tours available throughout the year offered by IUPUI or self-guided tours with audio guides provided onsite at no cost. During your visit you will learn about fascinating historic stories related to this unique subterranean environment as well as its importance in preserving our past while discovering exciting new things along the way!