Discover History in the Indianapolis City Market Catacombs

Have you ever visited the Indianapolis City Market? The market is home to over 25 locally-owned and operated small businesses and is your choice of ethnic eateries, from-scratch snacks, boutique goods and more … BUT what you might not know about is what’s underneath the market!

Just under the outdoor plaza exists Roman-looking expanses of brick arches, called Catacombs. Back in 1886 Tomlinson Hall, designed by Dietrich Bohlen, stood here. It consisted of a hall that seated 3,500 people and then sadly burned in 1958. Of course the remains of the building were removed, but the vast basement of brick arches were left in tact. Indiana Landmarks (whose mission is to save and protect Indiana’s historic places and promote historic preservation) offers guided tours of the Catacombs the first and third Saturdays of every month from May through October, with special tours just before Halloween on Oct. 29.

These tours happen four times a day and cost only $12/adult and $6/child ages 6-11. Tickets are on sale now and you can purchase them online or call 317-639-4534.

A great opportunity to learn about a hidden history in downtown Indiana. Who knew the City Market offered so much?