Capuchin Crypt (Cripta dei Frati Cappuccini)

The Basics

The Capuchin Crypt (Cripta dei Frati Cappuccini), a series of six small chapels used to bury Capuchin monks who died between 1528 and 1870, ultimately held around 3,700 bodies interred in the crypt’s sacred soil brought directly from Jerusalem. You can walk through the bone chapels to admire the unique decorations created by the skeletal remains of the deceased, said to be a reminder of the fleeting nature of mortality.

The best way to understand the historical and religious context of this remarkable site is to join a small-group crypts and catacombs tour. These tours typically visit the Capuchin Crypt and accompanying museum along with the ancient Roman catacombs under the Basilica of San Clemente with a tour guide. To avoid the daytime crowds, you can also opt for an private tour with exclusive after-hours access to the crypt.

Things to Know Before You Go

• This is a slightly macabre stop, so is not recommended for children or anyone who is claustrophobic or squeamish about human bones.

• Book a skip-the-line tour to avoid long waits, especially in the summer months.

• The crypt is not a haunted house, but a sacred burial space. Wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, and maintain a respectful decorum.

• Photography is not allowed.

• The crypt is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.

How to Get There

The Santa Maria della Concezione church is on Via Veneto, not far from the Piazza Barberini metro stop on line A. The Capuchin Crypt is underneath the church and has its own designated entrance.

When to Get There

The Capuchin Crypt is open year-round; check the website for hours. The underground site is a cool reprieve from the summer heat, yet can be very crowded during this time.

Underground Rome

Modern Rome sits on top of thousands of years of history, which is why the capital of Italy is known as the Eternal City. One of the best ways to explore the city’s remarkable past is by taking guided tours through Rome’s many underground sights, including remains of villas and monuments from ancient Rome as well as medieval crypts and catacombs.

How long does it take to visit the Capuchin Crypt?

Plan on approximately one hour to explore the Capuchin Crypt. During that time, you can head underground beneath the streets of Rome to see eerie tombs and hear stories about the history of this unique site. A tour is a good idea to help bring to life everything you see during a visit to the Capuchin Crypt.

What is the dress code for the Capuchin Crypt?

To go underground in the Capuchin Crypt, you will want to dress comfortably. Beneath the streets of Rome, the crypt has some uneven floor surfaces, so wear flat, comfortable shoes. It’s also cooler underground, so bringing a jacket or sweater is a good idea.

Is the Capuchin Crypt worth it?

Yes, the Capuchin Crypt is worth a visit. This underground site offers a whole new perspective on the history of Rome, and tour guides can share many details to bring that history to life. However, it may not be the best fit for families as the crypts may scare kids.

Can you take photos in the Capuchin Crypt?

No, visitors cannot take photographs in the Capuchin Crypt in Rome. This rule is implemented to align with the crypt’s conservation efforts of the mummies. Visitors should observe this rule and not take photographs during a tour.

Do you need to book Capuchin Crypt?

Visitors with limited time in Rome may want to make reservations for a tour of the Capuchin Crypt. By booking in advance, you can secure a tour on a particular day and time, skip lines, and ensure you get a tour in the language of your choice.

How many skeletons are in the Capuchin Crypt?

It is estimated that 3,700 friars were buried beneath the streets of Rome in the Capuchin Crypt between the 16th and 19th centuries. A tour through the crypt allows visitors to see how this space is decorated entirely in human bones. Tour guides can share details about the crypt’s history.

Ways to explore

The Capuchin Crypt (Cripta dei Frati Cappuccini) spans the site of six adjoining chapels used to bury Capuchin monks who died between 1528 and 1870. The best way to understand the historical and religious context of this remarkable sight is to join a small-group crypts and catacombs tour; these tours typically visit the Capuchin Crypt and accompanying museum—along with the ancient Roman catacombs under the Basilica of San Clemente—with a tour guide. Avoid the daytime crowds by taking a private tour with exclusive after-hours access to the crypt; booking at least two weeks in advance is recommended.

Accessibility

The Capuchin Crypt is partially accessible to wheelchairs, and disabled visitors enter for free.

Age limits

There is no age limit, but this sight is not recommended for young children.

What to pack

Camera, battery pack, water bottle

What to wear

Clothing covering shoulders and knees, plus an extra layer in the summer to ward off the chill inside the crypt

Not allowed

Food and drink (except water bottles), large bags, commercial photography

Amenities

Free bag check, restrooms, souvenir shop

Address

The Santa Maria della Concezione church sits at the bottom of Via Veneto; the Capuchin Crypt is underneath the church and has its own designated entrance. Driving and parking in Rome is a challenge, so opt for the bus or metro, or join a crypts and catacombs tour that includes transportation.

Driving

Though the Via Veneto neighborhood has wide streets and several parking garages, driving in Rome can be more trouble than it’s worth. Opt to walk to the Capuchin Crypt from the main Termini train station or nearby sights, including the Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese.

Public transportation

More than a dozen bus lines and metro line A stop at the Piazza Barberini transportation hub, just steps from the Capuchin Crypt. Catch the bus or metro from the Termini train station or neighborhoods across the city.

Best times to visit

Visit first thing in the morning or shortly before the afternoon closing time to avoid the midday crowds. Alternatively, book a private evening tour to visit the crypt after public opening hours; reserving at least two weeks ahead is recommended.

Best days to visit

The crypt is open daily, but weekdays tend to be less crowded than the weekends. Avoid Sundays, when the chapels see the highest number of visitors.

Best months to visit

This indoor site remains refreshingly cool in the summer months, offering a break from the outdoor temperatures in the afternoon.

Special events

Masses are held each weekday at 7:30am and on Sundays and holidays at 11am. English-language Mass is held at 5pm on the first Saturday of the month; you must book at least two weeks in advance to attend.