An adventure among skeletons and skulls in Rome’s Capuchin Crypt. A bizarre and fascinating place where beauty and the macabre meet. Perfect for those who love life’s oddities.
Where to find it
The temple of bones
Located on one of Rome’s chicest streets, the Capuchin Crypt is a masterpiece of oddities. Don’t be fooled by the respectable façade of the church of Santa Maria della Concezione. Once inside, prepare yourself for an experience that combines Baroque art with... human bones. Yep, you read that right. Six chapels decorated with the remains of around 4,000 Capuchin friars. It’s a bit like stepping into a weird mix between a museum and a horror movie.
Art or madness?
The arrangement of the bones is incredible. Some might say the friars had too much free time, but I prefer to think of them as misunderstood artists. Bones have been used to create chandeliers, picture frames, and even elaborate mosaics. Each chapel has its own theme: from the Chapel of Skulls to the Chapel of Thigh Bones. It’s a bit like visiting an art gallery, except the materials used are decidedly unconventional.
The Chapel of the Resurrection
The last chapel is perhaps the most unsettling. An entire skeleton, dressed in friar’s robes, lies in eternal repose. It’s a grim but effective reminder of our mortality. Every detail seems to scream: “Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return.”
The origins of the Crypt
The Capuchin Crypt dates back to 1631, when the Capuchin friars moved to the church of Santa Maria della Concezione. They decided that a simple burial wouldn’t suffice, so they created this unique resting place – or to terrify future visitors, depending on your point of view. The bones were brought here from the Order’s old cemeteries and carefully arranged to decorate the chapel walls.
The hidden meaning
Behind this bizarre display is a profound message. The friars wanted to remind the living of the brevity of life and the importance of spiritual reflection. Each bone is a memento mori, a reminder of our mortality and the necessity of living a virtuous life. But, let’s be honest, it’s also a fantastic place to take some seriously creepy photos.
Modernization
Despite its ancient appearance, the Capuchin Crypt has adapted to modern times. It’s become one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. While some might find the place a bit too macabre, others see it as a marvel of human ingenuity and spiritual devotion.
The skull thief
One of the weirdest stories involves a tourist who, fascinated by the collection, decided to take home a souvenir... a skull. Legend has it that the skull, offended at being removed from its place, began haunting the hapless thief, forcing him to return it in a hurry. Moral of the story: don’t steal from the dead, they don’t take it well.
The missing monk
Another intriguing anecdote tells of a monk who mysteriously disappeared in the 18th century. It’s said his spirit still roams the chapels, searching for his lost body. Visitors swear they’ve seen a hooded figure wandering the crypt, but is it real or just imagination? Come find out for yourself, if you dare.
The night of the dead
Every year, on All Saints’ Eve, it’s said the bones come to life for a macabre dance. The deceased friars return for one night, celebrating their otherworldly existence with a skeleton ball. There’s no proof, of course, but who would want to check?
A journey into the macabre
The crypt offers an experience that is both educational and a bit unsettling. It’s perfect for those wanting to discover something different from the usual museums and monuments. The beauty lies in the contrast between the sanctity of the place and its out-of-the-ordinary decoration. I recommend visiting with an open mind and a good dose of courage.
A place for reflection
Beyond its visual attraction, the crypt invites reflection. Each bone, each skull is there to remind you that life is short and precious. It’s a place that confronts you with your mortality and pushes you to live each day to the fullest. It’s not a light visit, but it’s definitely one that will leave an impression.
Why I Recommend It
I recommend it because the Capuchin Crypt is a place that challenges your perceptions and forces you to reflect on the big themes of life and death. It's an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Why I Don’t Recommend It
I don’t recommend it if you are easily impressionable or have a fear of macabre places. The crypt might not be the right spot for you. It's not a visit for the faint of heart.
