Attraction Guide: Hallstatt Beinhaus Museum, Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt Beinhaus Museum Guide

Hallstatt Beinhaus: A Unique and Thought-Provoking Ossuary Guide

Step into the Hallstatt Beinhaus, or Bone House, for a truly unique and thought-provoking experience. This small ossuary, located within St. Michael's Chapel, houses a collection of over 600 skulls, many of which are decorated with intricate paintings. It's a testament to Hallstatt's history and a reminder of the cycle of life and death. The Beinhaus originated due to limited burial space in the small Hallstatt cemetery. From the 12th century onwards, after a period of 10-12 years, the bones of the deceased were exhumed to make room for new burials. The skulls were then cleaned, bleached, and often decorated with the deceased's name, date of death, and floral motifs. This practice continued until the 20th century, with the last skull being placed in the Beinhaus in 1995. The painted skulls offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the people of Hallstatt. Visiting the Beinhaus is a somber but enriching experience. Take your time to observe the skulls and reflect on the stories they hold. The Beinhaus is a small space, so be mindful of other visitors. Photography is usually allowed, but it's important to be respectful. While the Beinhaus doesn't have a direct culinary connection, Hallstatt's restaurants offer a variety of traditional Austrian dishes. Consider trying "Knödel," a type of dumpling, or "Brettljause," a platter of local cheeses and meats.