Sedlec Ossuary (Bone Church) Guide
A Macabre Masterpiece: The Bone Church of Kutna Hora Guide
Prepare to be amazed and perhaps a little unnerved by the Sedlec Ossuary, more commonly known as the Bone Church. Located in Kutna Hora, Czech Republic, this unique and unforgettable chapel is decorated with the bones of approximately 40,000 to 70,000 people. It's a testament to both human mortality and artistic ingenuity, attracting visitors from around the globe who are drawn to its eerie beauty and thought-provoking atmosphere. The story of the Sedlec Ossuary begins in the 13th century when the abbot of the Sedlec Monastery returned from a pilgrimage to Jerusalem with soil from Golgotha, the site of Jesus' crucifixion. He sprinkled the soil over the cemetery, making it a highly desirable burial ground. The Black Death in the 14th century and the Hussite Wars in the 15th century resulted in a massive influx of burials. Around 1400, a half-blind monk was tasked with exhuming the skeletons and stacking the bones. In 1870, František Rint, a woodcarver, was commissioned to artistically arrange the bones, resulting in the macabre yet fascinating decorations we see today. A visit to the Sedlec Ossuary is a truly unique experience. Marvel at the bone chandeliers, the bone coat-of-arms of the Schwarzenberg family (who owned the ossuary), and the bone pyramids that adorn the chapel. Take time to reflect on the themes of life, death, and the passage of time. Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of the space and the remains of those interred there. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the Ossuary, Kutna Hora offers a variety of traditional Czech restaurants where you can enjoy hearty meals and local beers after your visit.
Transportation
From Prague, take a direct train to Kutná Hora hlavní nádraží (main station). From there, you can take a local bus or taxi to Sedlec. Alternatively, you can walk from the Kutná Hora main station to Sedlec, which takes approximately 30 minutes.