The Capuchin Crypt: Human Bones As Far As the Eye Can See

Beneath the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, is the Caphucin Crypt. The real remains of 4000 monks and some children are stacked and decorated in a fashion for reasons that are still vague to this day. I still don't really understand why its there, but its like a train wreck- you just have to look! I was glad that it wasn't actually underground- you just kind of go in at street level and the church is built up on blocks like so many are in Europe which is why its under the church- but there are like 6 separate rooms of bones- I guess I had read they were artistically placed but didn't expect the skeletons to be all pulled apart and arranged in patterns on the wall and ceilings! I mean there's even a skeleton chandellier!! "We are what you soon will be!" is a little sign in multiple languages which can haunt any pilgrim. All I can say is you have to do this. It's Surreal, Strange, yet weirdly beautiful and spiritual too. See it for yourself rather than give too much away. Do make the effort to go up the steps into the church. If you are offered a lightening personal tour by the caretaker TAKE IT,WOW WHAT A TREAT. It's well worth the 'thank you'. You will leave delighted and uplifted in a serendipidy sort of way. You will just have one of those special moments that you really never can plan.