Capuchin Crypt Rome, Rome

Although the city of Rome is dotted with many catholic sites, the Capuchin crypt is one of the most impressive and unique sites because it is entirely made out of bones. The bones and skulls of more than 4,000 capuchin individuals are arranged in a decorative manner, which is both spooky and impressive at the same time. The museum dedicated to the Capuchins and their missions around the globe provides a deep insight into their lives through different artefacts like manuscripts, vestments and reliquaries. Several paintings are also on display here, including the ‘St Francis in Meditation’ which was a work of the ‘Old Master Caravaggio’. 

The crypt is the main attraction here which is further divided into six different sections. The rooms are very dimly lit, taking the spooky factor a notch above. In one room, one can also find two severed mummified arms cross one another and upon closer inspection, one can notice that it forms Capuchin’s coat of arms. The Capuchins earned their names because of a hooded cap that they used to wear, apart from socks and a tunic. These figures are also placed inside the crypt to let people know how the Capuchins used to look back in the day.

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• There are six small chambers within the crypt, namely: crypt of the resurrection, crypt of the skulls, crypt of the leg bones and thigh bones, crypt of the pelvises, crypt of the three skeletons and lastly, the Mass Chapel.
• Get to learn about the history of the Capuchins who were a religious catholic sect from the 16th century.
•  The bones and skulls are decorated in creative motifs which might be a little spooky but a sight to behold nevertheless.
• There’s also a museum of the Capuchin order which offers an exhaustive history of the Capuchin brothers and their missions that they carried out across the world.
• A major highlight of the museum is the painting of Saint Francis in meditation which is attributed to none other than Caravaggio.

• On foot: The capuchin crypt or the Bone of Church has situated just a 10-minute walk away from the Spanish steps.
• By Metro: Metro Line A is considered to be the ideal metro line. Get off at the Barberini station and then from there, it is just a 2-minute walk to the church.
• By bus: There are several public transport options available for the Capuchin crypt including bus numbers 52, 53, 61, 62, 63, 80, 116 and 175. All these buses have their stops nearby where you can walk to the crypt.

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Spring is the best time to visit Rome and the capuchin crypt as well because the weather is usually perfect this time of the year. It is usually slightly warm but not too much and also, not many tourists flock to the legendary city of Rome during the Spring season.

When it comes to the Capuchin crypt, the gates open up at 10 AM in the morning and it is advisable to visit the crypt as early as possible. It is a very notable tourist attraction in Rome which could get a little crowded as the hours proceed.

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• Since this is a very solemn place of reflection of worship, talking loudly or shouting is not only looked down upon but is also considered disrespectful to the ideology that this place carries. 
• Just like all of Rome’s catholic churches, it is advisable to keep your clothing as modest as possible. One should refrain from wearing shorts or skirts above the knees, be it, men or women. Moreover, your shoulders should be covered as well. Hats must be removed as well because wearing gear like hats, caps, and sunglasses is considered to be disrespectful.
• The crypt is not suitable for young children as the sights inside the crypt could be a little disturbing to them.
• Photography inside the museum or the main crypt is strictly prohibited.

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