The Capuchin Churches: A Fascinating Display of Faith and Mortality

The Capuchin Churches: A Fascinating Display of Faith and Mortality.

The Capuchin Order of Friars Minor is a branch of the Franciscan Order that was established in the 16th century. Known for their simple way of life and devotion to poverty, the Capuchin friars have also gained notoriety for their unusual practice of using human bones to decorate their churches.

In Rome there is the opportunity to visit one of this amazing place decorated with bones. It is still possible to admire the walls and ceilings adorned with the bones of Capuchin friars who have passed away, arranged in intricate patterns and designs.

One of the most famous Capuchin churches is the Crypt of the Capuchin Friars in Rome, located beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini. The crypt contains the skeletal remains of over 4,000 Capuchin friars, arranged in various artistic displays.

The use of human bones in church decor can be traced back to the medieval period, when it was believed that being buried in or near a church would guarantee a person’s salvation. As churches became more crowded and space became scarce, the remains of the deceased were often exhumed and moved to crypts.

The Capuchin friars took this practice to an extreme, using the bones of their own brothers to create elaborate displays that served as a reminder of the transience of life and the inevitability of death.

The message was clear: we are all mortal, and our time on this earth is fleeting. Despite the initial shock factor, there is something undeniably beautiful about the Capuchin churches. The intricate patterns and designs created with the bones are a testament to the human ability to find beauty.

For those who visit the Capuchin churches, it is important to remember that these displays are not intended to be morbid or macabre. Instead, they serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of living each day to the fullest. It’s open to the public to show that all humans have exactly the same destiny and there will be no difference in social class or nationality or any other difference you may think of after death.

The Capuchin friars have a long and rich history, and their unique approach to church decoration is just one aspect of their fascinating story. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of art and architecture, or simply curious about the Capuchin friars and their way of life, a visit to one of their churches is an unforgettable experience.