Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones), Evora (must see)
The Chapel of Bones, located in 脡vora, is a hauntingly unique and intriguing monument that has captivated visitors from around the world. Situated adjacent to the entrance of the Church of Saint Francis, this small interior chapel stands as a somber reminder of mortality and the transient nature of human existence. Its name alone - "Chapel of Bones" - evokes a sense of both curiosity and solemn reflection.
The history of the Chapel of Bones dates back to the Franciscan friars who constructed it. This chapel serves as a macabre embodiment of their philosophy, demonstrating the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death. In a display that can be both chilling and awe-inspiring, the interior walls are adorned with thousands of human skulls and bones. These bones were sourced from the remains of ordinary people who were once interred in 脡vora's medieval cemeteries.
The process of creating this morbid yet strangely artistic arrangement involved exhuming approximately 5,000 corpses. These remains were then meticulously positioned by the Franciscans to form an assortment of patterns and designs, transforming the chapel into a labyrinth of bones. The architecture of the chapel is also noteworthy, with three spans measuring 18.7 meters in length and 11 meters in width. Illumination filters through three small openings on the left, casting an eerie light upon the walls of bones.
The history of the Chapel of Bones dates back to the Franciscan friars who constructed it. This chapel serves as a macabre embodiment of their philosophy, demonstrating the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death. In a display that can be both chilling and awe-inspiring, the interior walls are adorned with thousands of human skulls and bones. These bones were sourced from the remains of ordinary people who were once interred in 脡vora's medieval cemeteries.
The process of creating this morbid yet strangely artistic arrangement involved exhuming approximately 5,000 corpses. These remains were then meticulously positioned by the Franciscans to form an assortment of patterns and designs, transforming the chapel into a labyrinth of bones. The architecture of the chapel is also noteworthy, with three spans measuring 18.7 meters in length and 11 meters in width. Illumination filters through three small openings on the left, casting an eerie light upon the walls of bones.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Evora. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) on Map
Sight Name: Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones)
Sight Location: Evora, Portugal (See walking tours in Evora)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Evora, Portugal (See walking tours in Evora)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Evora, Portugal
Create Your Own Walk in Evora
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Evora Introduction Walking Tour
Nestling in the sun-drenched Alentejo region of Portugal, 脡vora is a timeless gem in the heart of the country and one of its oldest and most enchanting cities.
The city's history spans over 5,000 years. The name 脡vora originates from the Celtic word "ebura," which means "of the yew trees."
The Romans conquered the place in 57 BC, shaping it into a vital town at... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
The city's history spans over 5,000 years. The name 脡vora originates from the Celtic word "ebura," which means "of the yew trees."
The Romans conquered the place in 57 BC, shaping it into a vital town at... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles