Can I visit the Capuchin Crypt without a guided tour?

Yes, you can explore the crypt and museum independently with the help of an audio guide included in your ticket. However, guided tours offer more in-depth insights into the crypt’s history and its symbolic bone decorations.

How were the bones arranged in the crypt?

The bones are meticulously arranged along the walls of the crypt, forming intricate and elaborate designs. They are integrated into decorative motifs, including chandeliers, arches, and even a clock made of bones.

Why did the Capuchin monks create the crypt?

The crypt was initially created as a burial site for the Capuchin friars. It served as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of death.

Is there a skip-the-line option for Capuchin Crypt tickets?

Yes, some guided tours help you skip lines, which is particularly helpful during peak seasons like spring and summer when queues can get long.

Are children allowed in the crypt?

Yes, children can visit the crypt, but keep in mind that the bone displays might be unsettling for young visitors. Consider preparing them beforehand or opting for a museum-only visit if needed.

How long should I plan for a visit?

Most visits to the Capuchin Crypt, including the museum, take about 45 minutes to an hour. Guided tours might take slightly longer, depending on the itinerary.

Is the crypt wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, the crypt and its underground chambers are not wheelchair accessible due to its historic structure and narrow staircases.

Are there restrooms or a café nearby?

While there are no restrooms or cafés directly within the crypt, you’ll find facilities and dining options around Piazza Barberini, a short walk away.

Capuchin Crypt Tickets & Tours | Exploring Rome's Catacombs

From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+

Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Areti

Greece

Jan 2026

‌

It was a lifetime experience. So many people, so many exhibits to see, so well organised. An unforgettable experience honestly.

Ignatios

Greece

Jan 2026

‌

Amazing experience overall. A slight for sore eyes. It was easy to skip the line and visit the museums and the chapel. I will remember it forever!

Darinda

United States

Jan 2026

‌

Our tour guide was FABULOUS! Isabella Was 12* on a scale of 10 star! She really cares to educate! she deserves a raise😁 Your company cut through Hours of the line to take us straight in to the museum-no waiting in line!!!

Susan

United Kingdom

Jan 2026

‌

The overall experience was so informative, emotional & a must do on anyone's trip to Rome. The art work was amazing, the museum was exciting, The Sistine Chapel was out of this word as was St Peter's Bassilica

Fucci

Jan 2026

‌

It was a good experience, it was easy to make reservations, and the convenient queue skipping saves you long waits to get in to visit the desired places...

Arianna

Dec 2025

‌

+2 more

The museum is interesting where it explains who the Capuchin friars were, what they were dedicated to, with descriptions of the most important friars in history. The crypts on the other hand are the real highlight, beautiful mosaics of bones with the smallest pieces of ns body covering all the ceiling arches, chosen with real accuracy. The crypts on the other hand fascinating and scenic also studied in great detail especially in the central parts each with a different theme. I personally had a good time and did not feel the weight of lost souls, probably each of them found peace.

Carmen

Costa Rica

Dec 2025

‌

It was excellent especially the girl from the office that validates the tours who ran with me to get on time to the bus that makes the tour of the Vatican gardens, because I arrived late because there was a lot of traffic in Rome and also the rain. I am happy and grateful.

Michelle

Switzerland

Nov 2025

‌

Making a tegalo to mom 80 years old ,November all ok,the day fantastic together the tours both in bus and museums. Muchas gracias Thank you very much Merci beaucoup

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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

Features	Guided tours	Tours 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

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?

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.

More reads

What's not allowed

Pets
Food and drinks

Accessibility

The museum and crypt are wheelchair and stroller-friendly

Additional information

Since it is a religious site, shoulders and knees must be covered before entering.
There are storage facilities for large bags/luggage/backpacks.
Photography for personal/non-commercial use is permitted.

Inclusions #

Entry ticket to Capuchin Crypt and Museum
Audio guide

Exclusions #

Transfers
Live guide

These tickets are valid until 31 December, 2026.

From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.

Everything you get: Your adventure begins in central Rome with an expert guide leading you through centuries of Roman history. Explore sacred Christian Catacombs carved into volcanic rock and hear stories of early worshippers. Then, travel by air-conditioned coach to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, where Caravaggio’s art and 4,000 monks’ bones adorn the walls. All entry tickets, transfers, and an audio guide for the Crypt are included.
Why choose: The catacombs and crypt together complete early Christian Rome’s story: they convey how faith and death were transformed into art beneath the city. With convenient travel connecting these sites (7km apar), you can focus on discovery than navigating logistics.

Inclusions #

Entry ticket to Capuchin Crypt and Museum
Audio guide at Capuchin Crypt
Guided tour of Roman Catacombs
Transfers from city centre to Roman Catacombs and Capuchin Crypt

Exclusions #

Transfers from Capuchin Crypt to city centre
Meals and beverages

What to bring

A light jacket — temperatures in the catacombs are cool year-round.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, as visits include religious sites.

What’s not allowed

Photography or videography inside the catacombs and crypts.
Large bags or bulky items that may obstruct narrow passageways.

Accessibility

The tour involves uneven terrain, steep stairs, and confined tunnels.
Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair-accessible and not advised for visitors with mobility issues.

Additional information

Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
The Capuchin Crypt visit is self-guided with an audio guide.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

What's not allowed

Pets
Food and drinks

Accessibility

The museum and crypt are wheelchair and stroller-friendly

Additional information

Since it is a religious site, shoulders and knees must be covered before entering.
There are storage facilities for large bags/luggage/backpacks.
Photography for personal/non-commercial use is permitted.

Inclusions #

Entry ticket to Capuchin Crypt and Museum
Audio guide

Exclusions #

Transfers
Live guide

These tickets are valid until 31 December, 2026.

From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.

Everything you get: Your adventure begins in central Rome with an expert guide leading you through centuries of Roman history. Explore sacred Christian Catacombs carved into volcanic rock and hear stories of early worshippers. Then, travel by air-conditioned coach to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, where Caravaggio’s art and 4,000 monks’ bones adorn the walls. All entry tickets, transfers, and an audio guide for the Crypt are included.
Why choose: The catacombs and crypt together complete early Christian Rome’s story: they convey how faith and death were transformed into art beneath the city. With convenient travel connecting these sites (7km apar), you can focus on discovery than navigating logistics.

Inclusions #

Entry ticket to Capuchin Crypt and Museum
Audio guide at Capuchin Crypt
Guided tour of Roman Catacombs
Transfers from city centre to Roman Catacombs and Capuchin Crypt

Exclusions #

Transfers from Capuchin Crypt to city centre
Meals and beverages

What to bring

A light jacket — temperatures in the catacombs are cool year-round.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, as visits include religious sites.

What’s not allowed

Photography or videography inside the catacombs and crypts.
Large bags or bulky items that may obstruct narrow passageways.

Accessibility

The tour involves uneven terrain, steep stairs, and confined tunnels.
Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair-accessible and not advised for visitors with mobility issues.

Additional information

Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
The Capuchin Crypt visit is self-guided with an audio guide.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Guided Tours

Capuchin Crypt + Catacombs Tour with Transfers

From frescoed tombs to walls of bones, journey through Rome’s buried secrets without the crowds or the commute.

Everything you get: Your adventure begins in central Rome with an expert guide leading you through centuries of Roman history. Explore sacred Christian Catacombs carved into volcanic rock and hear stories of early worshippers. Then, travel by air-conditioned coach to the Capuchin Crypt and Museum, where Caravaggio’s art and 4,000 monks’ bones adorn the walls. All entry tickets, transfers, and an audio guide for the Crypt are included.
Why choose: The catacombs and crypt together complete early Christian Rome’s story: they convey how faith and death were transformed into art beneath the city. With convenient travel connecting these sites (7km apar), you can focus on discovery than navigating logistics.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

3 hr. - 3 hr. 30 min.

Audio guide

Transfers available

Capuchin Crypt Tours

From happy customers

Top things to do in Rome

Capuchin Crypt: Where art meets the afterlife

Things to know before buying Capuchin Crypt tickets

Your Capuchin Crypt tour options explained

Capuchin Crypt | Quick facts

What are Capuchin Crypt opening hours?

Best time to visit the Capuchin Crypt

Where is Capuchin Crypt located?

Highlights of Capuchin Crypt

Crypt of the Three Skeletons

Crypt of the Resurrection

The Chapel for the Mass

Crypt of the Skulls

Crypt of the Basins

Crypt of the Tibias and Femurs

Timeline of the Capuchin Crypt

Visitor tips

Frequently asked questions about the Capuchin Crypt tickets

Do Capuchin Crypt tickets include access to the museum?

Can I visit the Capuchin Crypt without a guided tour?

How were the bones arranged in the crypt?

Why did the Capuchin monks create the crypt?

Is there a skip-the-line option for Capuchin Crypt tickets?

Are children allowed in the crypt?

How long should I plan for a visit?

Is the crypt wheelchair accessible?

Are there restrooms or a café nearby?

More reads

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Capuchin Crypt Tours

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What's not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information

What to bring

What’s not allowed

Accessibility

Additional information