Hi, I’m Gianluca.
I studied cultural anthropology, and I’ve always been fascinated by the different ways people live, move, and experience a place.
Rome is not only my city – it’s the environment I love observing, understanding, and sharing through these small stories.
Together with my wife Connie, we host travellers in our small hotel near the Vatican, where we enjoy meeting people from all over the world and exchanging perspectives – just as I do here in the blog.
If you ever feel like saying hello while exploring Rome, you’ll find us on our terrace as well, where every morning we serve breakfast with a view.
Gianluca
Just a 10-minute metro ride from QuodLibet Bed and Breakfast, the Crypt of the Capuchins offers one of Rome’s most intriguing and macabre experiences. Located beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione on Via Veneto, the crypt is famous for its unique use of human bones as decoration, creating a haunting yet fascinating atmosphere.
History and Significance
The crypt was established in the 17th century by Capuchin monks who used the bones of their deceased brethren to create intricate decorations in the small chapels. These designs, made from the skeletons of over 3,700 monks, symbolize the transience of life and serve as a reminder of mortality, reflecting the monastic principle of Memento Mori.
Each chapel within the crypt is adorned with human bones, from chandeliers made of vertebrae to altars decorated with skulls. The crypt is not meant to be morbid, but rather a place for reflection on life, death, and eternity. It’s a truly unique cultural and spiritual experience in the heart of Rome.
Curiosities
- Memento Mori Art: The crypt’s use of bones as art is a stark reminder of death, encouraging visitors to reflect on the fleeting nature of life.
- Famous Visitors: The crypt has attracted visitors like Mark Twain and Charles Dickens, who were both fascinated by its eerie yet thought-provoking design.
- Monk Remains: Many of the bones belonged to Capuchin monks who lived in the nearby friary. Their remains were respectfully arranged as a tribute to their lives and faith.
Location and How to Reach
The Crypt of the Capuchins is located at Via Veneto, 27, just a short walk from Barberini metro station. From QuodLibet, you can take the metro Line A at Ottaviano and get off at Barberini, then walk to the crypt.
Opening Hours and Ticket Information
- Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (closed on Thursdays).
- Tickets: Admission is €8.50, which includes access to the crypt and the adjoining museum.
Whether you’re drawn to its artistic significance or its reflective message, the Crypt of the Capuchins offers a memorable experience for any visitor to Rome. For guests at QuodLibet, it’s a convenient and fascinating stop during your stay in the city.