Sedlec Ossuary

(AKA Kostnice Sedlec, The Cemetery Church of All Saints)

The Sedlec Ossuary, located in the town of Kutná Hora, Czech Republic, is a unique and fascinating destination for anyone interested in history, art, or the macabre. Also known as the “Bone Church,” it is a small chapel located beneath the Cemetery Church of All Saints. What sets this place apart is its interior, which is decorated with the bones of an estimated 40,000 to 70,000 people.

Upon entering the Sedlec Ossuary, visitors are immediately greeted by a stunning and somewhat eerie sight. The bones have been artistically arranged to create intricate decorations and architectural features. You’ll find enormous chandeliers made entirely of bones, a coat of arms made of skulls, and bone pyramids adorning the corners of the chapel. It’s a surreal experience to witness such a vast display of human bones integrated into the very structure of the building.

The history of the ossuary dates back to the 13th century when it became a popular burial site due to its location near the Church of All Saints. During the Hussite Wars in the 15th century and the Black Death in the 14th century, thousands of bodies were buried in the cemetery, eventually leading to overcrowding. In the 16th century, a half-blind monk was tasked with exhuming the remains and stacking the bones in the chapel’s crypt. Over time, these bones were transformed into the remarkable displays you can see today.

The Sedlec Ossuary serves as a unique memento mori, a reminder of the transience of life and the inevitability of death. It’s a place that sparks contemplation and offers a glimpse into the historical and cultural significance of mortality. The combination of artistic creativity and the somber ambiance of the chapel creates a truly haunting yet captivating atmosphere.

While the Sedlec Ossuary may not be for the faint of heart, it’s a must-visit for those with an interest in the unconventional, the macabre, or those who simply appreciate art in its most unconventional form. As you explore this bone-filled masterpiece, you’ll undoubtedly be left with lasting impressions and a deeper appreciation for the impermanence of existence.

Visit Notes

First of all, photography is not allowed without advance permission. You can apply for a permit at least three days prior to your visit. If you receive permission, you will stop at the visitor center and pick up your permit before proceeding to the ossuary. And yes, I did receive permission, so all these photos are on the up-and-up. Please respect the rules and either plan ahead and apply for the permit, or settle for not taking any photos.

The ossuary itself is completely fascinating. During our visit they were doing some preservation work and an interesting video was showing, detailing the steps involved. The arrangement of the bones is quite artistic, more so than the other bone churches and ossuaries I’ve visited.

If you aren’t creeped out by bones or the thought of our imminent demise, then you should absolutely stop here.