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Explore five subterranean chapels intricately decorated with the skeletal remains of nearly 4,000 Capuchin friars.
The crypt area contains six distinct rooms, five of which are completely decorated with human bones. The friars established this space in 1631, bringing 300 cartloads of deceased brethren to their new church.
These remains were collected between 1528 and 1870. The soil covering the ground was reportedly brought directly from Jerusalem by order of Pope Urban VIII.
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This elaborate chapel uses human skulls for its primary decorative motifs. You will see arches and wall fixtures built entirely from these remains. Notice the skull-and-crossbones motifs made from actual bones, serving as a literal interpretation of death.
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This room features intricate geometric patterns and large rosettes fashioned out of pelvic bones. Pay attention to the ceiling chandeliers overhead. These fixtures are intricately pieced together using various smaller bones.
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The walls here are densely stacked with tibias and femurs. These bone walls frame full skeletons still clad in their traditional brown Capuchin robes. The friars intended this room to show that the earthly body is merely a vessel.
5 minutesContains the famous floor plaque
This is the final room of the crypt, famous for its blunt message about mortality. Look for the prominent plaque on the floor. It reads: 'What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you shall be.'
