Attraction Guide: Hallstatt Beinhaus, Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt Beinhaus Guide

A Unique Tradition: Discover the Hallstatt Beinhaus (Bone House) Guide

The Hallstatt Beinhaus, or Bone House, is a small, unassuming chapel that houses a collection of human skulls, many of which are decorated with intricate paintings. This unique and somewhat macabre attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the local customs and traditions surrounding death and remembrance in Hallstatt. It's a poignant reminder of the village's history and the limited space available for burials. Due to the limited space in Hallstatt's cemetery, a tradition developed where, after a period of time (typically 10-12 years), the bones of the deceased were exhumed to make room for new burials. The skulls were then cleaned, bleached, and often painted with floral designs, the deceased's name, and date of death. This practice began in the 18th century and continues to this day, although on a much smaller scale. The Beinhaus serves as a final resting place for these decorated skulls. Visitors can enter the Beinhaus and view the collection of skulls. It's a somber but thought-provoking experience. Photography is generally allowed, but visitors are asked to be respectful. The Beinhaus is located near the Catholic Church, making it easy to visit both attractions in one trip. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the Beinhaus, the experience often prompts reflection on life and mortality, which can be complemented by enjoying a traditional Austrian meal at one of the local restaurants.