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Capuchin Crypt Tours
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION3 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Piazza d'Aracoeli
Begin your guided tour from this central location in Rome, and end it at the Capuchin Crypt.
6 kms
18 mins
1
Catacombs of Domitilla
40 mins
Tickets included
Home to some of the grandest cubicula around, these catacombs boast an intricate network of tunnels and a 2nd-century semi-undergound Basilica dedicated to Saints Nereus and Achilleus.
6.8 kms
22 mins
2
Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
Tickets included
This part of the tour is unguided – turn up your audio guide and independently explore the hauntingly beautiful chapels decorated by skeletal art, blending the macabre with the spiritual.
3
Peek under Rome at the Domitilla Catacombs and the Capuchin Crypt, with all transfers included!
- Tread the same paths as early Christians in the Catacombs of Domitilla, appreciating the intricate construction and décor.
- Get expert guidance in your chosen language as you view tombs laden with frescoes and sculptures memorializing loved ones.
- Unpack the history of a Franciscan 'First Order' in the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars using an audio guide.
- A series of tiny underground chapels with 'calcified' art make up its crypt, reflecting memento mori – a reminder of mortality!
Peek under Rome at the Domitilla Catacombs and the Capuchin Crypt, with all transfers included!
- Tread the same paths as early Christians in the Catacombs of Domitilla, appreciating the intricate construction and décor.
- Get expert guidance in your chosen language as you view tombs laden with frescoes and sculptures memorializing loved ones.
- Unpack the history of a Franciscan 'First Order' in the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars using an audio guide.
- A series of tiny underground chapels with 'calcified' art make up its crypt, reflecting memento mori – a reminder of mortality!
Inclusions
- Half-day tour around Domitilla Catacombs and Capuchin Crypt
- Guided tour of Domitilla Catacombs with entry (except Tuesday)
- Guided tour of St. Callixtus Catacombs with entry (only Tuesday)
- Expert English, Italian, German, French, or Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip AC coach transfers from central Rome
- Entry to the Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars with audio guide
Exclusions
- Guided tour of the Museum & Crypt of the Capuchin Friars
- Tip: In the Domitilla Catacombs, keep an eye out for the restored 'room of the bakers' with its prophetic frescoes.
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible, and not recommended for those with claustrophobia or serious mobility issues.
- Strict dress code: Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
- Photography and videography is prohibited inside the catacombs.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Rome
Capuchin Crypt in Rome | Quick Facts
- Official name: Capuchin Crypt
- Location/Address: Via Vittorio Veneto, 27, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
- Date of opening: 1631
- Function: Crypt and religious site
Why Visit the Capuchin Crypt?
- Fascinating history: Learn about the Capuchin monks, their religious beliefs, and their unique burial practices that date back to the 16th century.
- Display of human bones: View the intricate designs and elaborate displays crafted entirely from human bones.
- Spiritual experience: The Capuchin Crypt holds deep significance, serving as a powerful reminder of the fleeting nature of life. The seemingly macabre display is really a poignant testament to the human experience.
- Quirky souvenirs: Take home a unique memento of your visit by purchasing one of the many souvenirs available at the gift shop.
Plan Your Visit to the Capuchin Crypt in Rome
What are the Capuchin Crypt Opening Hours?
Timings: Every day from 10 AM to 7 PM.
Last admission: 6:30 PM
Best time to visit: It is recommended to visit the crypt early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Where is the Capuchin Crypt Located?
Address: Via Vittorio Veneto, 27, 00187 Roma RM, Italy.
The Capuchin Crypt is located beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, which is just a few steps away from the famous Palazzo Barberini.
What’s Inside the Capuchin Crypt Highlights
Crypt of the Three Skeletons
This crypt features three skeletons enclosed in an oval, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. One skeleton holds a scythe representing mortality, while the other holds scales symbolizing judgment of one's deeds. A placard reminds visitors of the universal truth: "What you are now we used to be; what we are now you will be..."
Crypt of the Resurrection
Here, you will find a powerful display of human bones arranged to frame a picture of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. It serves as a visual representation of the theme of resurrection and the triumph over death.
The Chapel for the Mass
This is a non-bone area where mass is celebrated. It houses an altarpiece depicting Jesus, Mary, and saints urging the release of souls from Purgatory. The chapel also contains the heart of Maria Felice Peretti, the grand niece of Pope Sixtus V, and the tomb of Papal Zouaves who died defending the Papal States.
Crypt of the Skulls
The crypt showcases an arrangement of human skulls, creating a macabre yet fascinating sight that reflects the transience of life and the inevitability of death.
Crypt of the Basins
It features the arrangement of human pelvis bones, forming basins. This unique display highlights the physicality of the human body and creates a thought-provoking and visually striking experience for visitors.
Crypt of the Tibias and Femurs
The crypt displays a collection of leg bones and thigh bones, highlighting the structure and strength of the human lower extremities in an artistic and thought-provoking manner.
History of the Capuchin Crypt
The Capuchin Crypt, also called the Bone Chapel, was created by the Capuchin monks who relocated to this area in 1631. TThey brought with them the remains of deceased friars, approximately 300 cartloads of bones from the old monastery. Under the supervision of Fr. Michael of Bergamo, the bones were meticulously arranged in the burial crypt.
To create the crypt, soil from Jerusalem was imported at the behest of Pope Urban VIII. As friars passed away, their bodies were interred in the crypt without coffins, and the longest-buried remains were exhumed to make room for the newly deceased. These reclaimed bones were then incorporated into the decorative motifs lining the walls.
The crypt also served as the final resting place for poor Romans, whose tombs were situated beneath the floor of the present-day Mass chapel. The Capuchins would gather in the crypt each evening for prayer and reflection before retiring for the night. Over the years, the crypt became the burial site for around 4,000 friars, with burials taking place from 1500 to 1870, during a period when the Roman Catholic Church allowed interments within churches.
It is worth noting that from 1851 to 1852, women were not permitted entry into the crypt.
History of the Rome CatacombsFrequently Asked Questions About the Capuchin Crypt
What is the Capuchin Crypt?
The Capuchin Crypt is a unique underground burial site in Rome that contains the remains of over 4,000 Capuchin friars.
How old are the bones in the crypt?
The burials in the crypt date back to the period between 1500 and 1870, during which the Roman Catholic Church permitted interments within churches.
How were the bones arranged in the crypt?
The bones are meticulously arranged along the walls of the crypt, forming intricate and elaborate designs. They are integrated into decorative motifs, including chandeliers, arches, and even a clock made of bones.
Why did the Capuchin monks create the crypt?
The crypt was initially created as a burial site for the Capuchin friars. It served as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death.
Can visitors enter the crypt?
Yes, visitors can enter the Capuchin Crypt and explore its unique displays. However, it is important to be respectful of the space and refrain from touching the bones or taking photographs.
Where can I buy Capuchin Crypt tickets?
You can buy Capuchin Crypt tickets at the entrance of the site. However, booking your tickets online in advance is best to avoid long queues.
Can I purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the site or through online platforms.
Can I visit other attractions with Capuchin Crypt tickets?
No, Capuchin Crypt tickets only allow access to the crypt itself. If you want to visit other attractions in the area, you must purchase separate tickets.
When was the Capuchin Crypt built?
The Capuchin Crypt was built in the early 17th century, although some of the bones on display date back earlier.
Where is the Capuchin Crypt located?
The Capuchin Crypt is located in Rome, Italy, just a few minutes walk from the Barberini metro station.
What are the timings of the Capuchin Crypt?
The Capuchin Crypt is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, with the last admission at 6:30 PM.
