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From happy customers

Loved by 50 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Irina G

Armenia
Couple
Last week
All was great, I really enjoyed all the rooms. It desplayed masterpieces of different artists and periods of time. I felt the history myself.

Mariam A

Georgia
Group
Last week

+1 more

Everything went smoothly, no lines - we skipped everything, audiophile was also helpful, so over all it was an excellent experience

Hope E

Solo
Last week
Francisco was an amazing guide! I thoughouly enjoyed his commentary and history of the Vatican, as well as the history behind why the artists made certain artistic decisions.

Caneschi V

France
Couple
2 weeks ago

+2 more

We had a really enjoyable tour thanks to our guide, who was excellent. The only slight downside was that the meeting point wasn't very clear, but everything worked out in the end. A must-do

Mirurgia R

Spain
Couple
2 weeks ago
An impressive place that’s definitely worth visiting—it won’t disappoint. It was an enriching experience, and I highly recommend stopping by if you’re in Rome.

Rafael M

Spain
Couple
Last week
I'm really glad I visited the monastery; honestly, it was an incredible first-time experience. I couldn't stop marveling at the decorations—all the bones in every chapel were spectacular! Thanks for everything!

Renata K

Netherlands
Family
3 weeks ago

+1 more

The view from Castel Sant'Angelo was fantastic! Both of the city and of St. Peter's Basilica. Keep in mind that if you visit the Pantheon, you can easily see it all in 15–20 minutes. Also, since many people enter at the same time, it can feel a bit crowded. Headout sent the tickets in time so we could visit the attractions. Booking was very simple. We really enjoyed this day.

Christian S

Italy
Group
3 weeks ago
As scheduled during the booking process, we arrived at the gardens without any long waits and enjoyed a wonderful tour on an open-top bus with an audio guide. As soon as the bus tour ended, we entered the museums to admire the beautiful works of art, finishing with the Sistine Chapel. It was wonderful.
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Capuchin Crypt: Where art meets the afterlife

Journey through time and mortality at one of Rome’s most fascinating treasures—the Capuchin Crypt! Located beneath the church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, it is famous for its artistic displays made from the skeletal remains of approximately 3,700 Capuchin friars. These remains are arranged in elaborate designs, including chandeliers and decorative arches. Created by the Capuchin friars in the 17th century, this underground world invites reflection on life, death, and the fleeting nature of existence. Join a local expert on a memorable tour. Read more to find why and how to visit.

Things to know before buying Capuchin Crypt tickets

  • Access to the Capuchin Crypt is only permitted through a visit to the associated Museum of the Capuchin Friars. You cannot enter the crypt without first going through the museum, which provides valuable context about the Capuchin Order and its history.
  • Due to high demand, especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book your tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This will secure your spot and help you avoid disappointment, as last-minute availability can be limited.
  • The Crypt is steeped in Rome's timeless history, and a guided tour can elevate your experience with fascinating stories and little-known facts. Opt for a half-day tour that combines the Capuchin Crypt with nearby sites like the Domitilla Catacombs and San Nicola Basilica—ideal for a well-rounded underground adventure.
  • If you’re a first-time visitor, go for a tour with round-trip transfers from central Rome. It’s a hassle-free way to navigate Italy’s transportation system. While the guide will lead you through the Catacombs of St. Callixtus and Domitilla, you’ll explore the Museum and Crypt of the Capuchin Friars on your own using an audio guide.
  • Smaller to medium groups (around 20 guests) gives you a more intimate experience, while larger groups may be more cost-effective but could lack personal attention from guides.
  • The site is not wheelchair accessible due to steps and uneven surfaces.

Your Capuchin Crypt tour options explained

FeaturesGuided toursTours with transfers

Guide

✅

🎧

Transfers

❌

🚌

Additional stops

St. Callixtus/Domitilla/St. Sebastian Catacombs (based on availability), San Nicola Basilica

Domitilla Catacombs, St. Callixtus Catacombs

Recommended tours

Capuchin Crypt | Quick facts

Capuchin Crypt? - Quick Facts
  • Historical significance: Final resting place for 4,000 Capuchin monks, created to embody the "memento mori" philosophy.
  • Time period: Built in the 17th century, with burials from 1500 to 1870.
  • Current use: A tourist site and reflection spot featuring artistic bone displays, alongside a museum on Capuchin life.
  • Accessibility: Located under Santa Maria della Concezione, Via Vittorio Veneto, Rome. Open daily: 10am - 7pm.
  • Key features: Five chambers decorated with bones and skulls in intricate designs. Crypt of Skulls, Crypt of Leg Bones, and the Mass Chapel (relics but no bones). Unique displays like chandeliers from shoulder blades, clocks from vertebrae.

What are Capuchin Crypt opening hours?

Why Visit the Capuchin Crypt?

Daily:

Morning: From 9:30am to 1:30pm (last entry at 12:30pm)

Afternoon: From 2:30pm to 6:30pm (last entry at 5:30pm)

Days closed:The Capuchin Crypt is closed on December 25, January 1, and Easter Sunday.

Complete schedule of Roman Catacombs

Best time to visit the Capuchin Crypt

The best time to visit the Capuchin Crypt is right when it opens at 10am for a peaceful, crowd-free experience. If you're planning your trip, aim for weekdays, especially Mondays or Tuesdays, as weekends can get busy. For the best weather, visit in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to early November), when Rome is at its most comfortable. Summer months like July and August are quite crowded, while the cooler temperatures from December to February create a unique and contemplative ambiance in the crypt's underground chambers.

Where is 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.

  • By bus: Take bus routes 52, 63, or 175 to the nearest stops, which are a short walk from the crypt.
  • By metro: The closest metro station is Barberini on Line A. From there, it’s just a few minutes' walk to the Capuchin Crypt.
Step-by-step directions to Roman Catacombs

Highlights of Capuchin Crypt

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.

Timeline of the Capuchin Crypt

  • 1500-1870: Approximately 4,000 Capuchin friars were buried in the crypt. Burials followed the tradition of exhuming the longest-buried remains to make space for new ones. These reclaimed bones were incorporated into the crypt's ornate decorations.
  • 1631: The Capuchin monks relocated to the site, bringing with them 300 cartloads of bones from their previous monastery. Under Fr. Michael of Bergamo's supervision, the bones were meticulously arranged. Soil from Jerusalem was imported at Pope Urban VIII's request for the crypt's creation.
  • 1851-1852: Entry to the crypt was restricted, prohibiting women from visiting during this time.
  • Present day: The crypt stands as a unique and solemn historical site, drawing visitors with its intricate bone arrangements and its significance as a burial site for friars and poor Romans.

​Complete history of Roman Catacombs explained

Visitor tips

  • The crypt and museum can be explored thoroughly in 45 minutes to an hour. This gives you ample time to appreciate the exhibits without rushing.
  • Pair your visit with nearby landmarks like the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione or Piazza Barberini for a fuller exploration of the area.
  • As a sacred site, the crypt requires modest attire. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered to avoid being denied entry.
  • Photography is strictly prohibited inside the crypt. Respect the sanctity of the space by leaving your camera or phone in your bag.
  • Bring a light jacket. The crypt's underground chambers are naturally cool, even in summer. A light jacket or shawl will keep you comfortable.
  • The intricate displays of human bones serve as a profound reminder of the fleeting nature of life. Take a moment to reflect on the Capuchin motto, "What you are now, we once were; what we are now, you shall be."

​Plan your visit to Capuchin Crypt

Frequently asked questions about the Capuchin Crypt tickets

Yes, all Capuchin Crypt tickets include entry to the Museum of the Capuchin Friars, where you can explore exhibits on the history of the order, their lifestyle, and the fascinating connection between art and faith.

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