Santa Maria della Concezione

Explore art work created from skeleton of deceased monks

Santa Maria Della Concezione is a church decorated with bones in Rome. In the 17th century, Santa Maria Della Concezione bones were used to make macabre works of art. You can visit this remarkable church in Italy

The five chapels of the Santa Maria della Concezione crypt are decorated with skulls, bones and complete skeletons of deceased monks. Over 4,000 skeletons have been used for this decoration.

Art with bones and skulls

Monks have made mosaics here in various crypts, using bones from their deceased brothers. You will see all sorts of images of death and the hereafter. 

Skeletons, sometimes still wearing the habit, will remind you of our mortality. Even the Grim Reaper is present. 

The wonderous interior of Santa Maria Della Concezione.

An interesting fact is that the monks currently running this church will be added to the exhibition once they are deceased. It makes your visit and interaction with the staff even more special.

Best time to visit Santa Maria Della Concezione

Despite this not being the most heartwarming place to visit, it will still get busy here in summer. The best time to go and to avoid crowds is early morning and during the week.

Location of the ossuary church in Rome

The church is near the Piazza Barberini on Via Vittorio Veneto in Rome. You won't notice it until you're inside.

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