Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini

Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini is a 17th-century Capuchin church in Rome known for its ossuary, where the bones of friars have been arranged as decorations. The site combines a modest church interior with a famous underground crypt and a small museum.

The crypt contains decorative displays made from human bones and skulls of Capuchin friars arranged into patterns and inscriptions; it is the primary attraction and a unique example of Capuchin memento mori practice. The church above the crypt has a restrained Baroque interior with altarpieces related to the Capuchin order.

The adjoining museum displays liturgical objects and documents relating to the Capuchin community. The contrast between the simple church and the ornate bone crypt is the defining visitor experience.

The Capuchin friars established a convent and church at this site in the 17th century; the crypt’s bone displays originate from the friars’ burial practices and were arranged over subsequent centuries as a devotional reminder of mortality. The church and crypt have remained associated with the Capuchin order since their foundation.

The church and crypt sit near Via Veneto and Piazza Barberini in central Rome, within easy walking distance of other central attractions and well served by public transport.

• Visiting note: The crypt is unusual and sensitive; many visitors consider it a macabre but important expression of Capuchin memento mori spirituality.
• Location tip: The church and crypt are on the Via Veneto / Barberini area of Rome, making them easy to visit alongside other central attractions.

What to See #

• Capuchin crypt: Underground crypt decorated with human bones and skulls arranged in decorative patterns, which is the principal reason many visitors come.
• Church and museum: Church interior and small museum displaying paintings and objects associated with the Capuchin community and the convent.