Guide to Europe's Bone Churches: Prague, Rome, Paris & More

Sedlec Ossuary, Czech Republic: This small chapel located in the Prague suburb of Kutná Hora is one of the most famous bone churches in Europe. It is decorated with more than 40,000 human bones, that are arranged into intricate designs, including chandeliers, pyramids and garlands.

Kapuzinerkloster, Salzburg, Austria: This church is home to a small ossuary that is tucked away in the basement. Here, visitors can see a collection of bones arranged in intricate designs, including a coat of arms made entirely of bones.

St. Michael's Chapel, Hallstatt, Austria: This picturesque chapel is nestled in the heart of the picturesque town of Hallstatt and is home to a small ossuary containing the bones of several hundred local residents. Visitors can also explore the surrounding graveyard to see other examples of unique bone art.

St. Leonard's Crypt, Heiligenkreuz, Austria: This church is home to one of the largest collections of bones in Europe, with bones from over 11,000 individuals displayed in elaborate designs and structures. Visitors can also explore the surrounding cemetery to see other examples of unique bone art.

Monastery of San Bernardino, Milan, Italy: This stunning church is located in the heart of Milan and is home to a small ossuary that contains the bones of several hundred local residents. Visitors can also explore the surrounding cemetery to see other examples of unique bone art.

Catacombs of Paris, France: The Catacombs of Paris are perhaps one of the most famous ossuaries in the world. This underground network of tunnels holds the remains of over six million Parisians, stacked neatly in elaborate designs. Visitors can take a guided tour of the catacombs to see the bones up close and learn about the history of this unique site.

Santa Maria della Concezione, Rome, Italy: This church is home to the famous "Capuchin Crypt," which contains the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin friars arranged in elaborate designs. Visitors can explore six small chapels, each containing unique bone structures and art.

San Lorenzo fuori le Mura, Rome, Italy: This church is home to an underground crypt that holds the remains of several thousand early Christian martyrs. The bones are arranged in simple but striking designs that highlight the spirituality of the site.

If I have missed a bone church that you have visited please send me an email so I can add it to this guide.

Here are some of our favorite restaurants from along the way:

Paris - Bistrot Paul Chêne. A french classic that has been around for generations. We love this place for both the food and the service.

Rome - Dar Sor Olimpio al Draga. In a city of fantastic food, this place stands out to us. Everything they do is fantastic, food, service and drinks. Meats fish, and (of course) phenomenal pasta. We've even gone out drinking with the waiters after dinner!

Milan - Osteria Mamma Rosa. Absolutely adore this place! They start pouring prosecco the minute you sit down and treat every guest like royalty. Fantastic food, including risotto milanese of course. The sea bass and the scallops were also delicious.

Prague - Etnosvet Bistro. Prepare to be WOW'D! This is a vegetarian restaurant but don't be scared off by that. They are absolute flavor masters. They closed during the pandemic but I'm including them with the hope they'll reopen and you'll get to eat there. It was that good!