Capuchin Catacombs (Catacombe dei Cappuccini)

A small entrance fee is required to visit the Capuchin Catacombs. A stop here is included on some Palermo sightseeing tours, with the sight sometimes paired with a visit to the Monreale Cathedral. Visiting with a tour guide is the best way to understand the catacombs’ historical and religious significance.

• The catacombs are dark and often slightly humid, and may not be a suitable attraction for everyone—especially children or anyone who is claustrophobic.

• Taking photographs inside and touching the remains is prohibited—iron grills have been installed to protect the mummies.

• The underground catacombs are not accessible to wheelchairs.

The Capuchin Catacombs are located beneath the Capuchin Monastery on Piazza Cappuccini in central Palermo. It’s about a 15-minute walk to the monastery from the city’s historic center.

The Capuchin crypts are open daily but closed on Sunday afternoons in winter. As one of the most important catacombs in Italy, the sight can get crowded in summer, so plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the eerie atmosphere in peace and quiet.

The Capuchin friars began burying the deceased in crypts beneath the monastery in the 16th century. They soon discovered that the unique conditions in the catacombs combined with their own burial rituals preserved the bodies extremely well, and it wasn’t long before being buried in the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo—and therefore being preserved after death—was a status symbol and Sicilians began requesting this in their wills. Today, 1,252 mummified bodies remain divided among chambers dedicated to Capuchin monks, priests, virgins, professionals, women, men, and children, all encased in coffins or propped in poses. One of the last bodies to be placed in the catacombs is also the most famous: 2-year-old Rosalia Lombardo, who looks today as if she was just put down for a nap—though she’s been dead since 1920.

The Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo house more than 1,000 mummified human bodies (including children) and may not be suitable for kids due to its macabre nature. Older children interested in history may find it fascinating, but parental discretion is advised. There is no age requirement for visiting.

Reservations are not required to visit the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo. However, large groups should call before visiting to ensure entry, especially in peak tourist season. It's a good idea to call ahead to confirm visiting hours and any potential restrictions. Group entries are limited to 12 people.

The mummies in the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo range in age. Some date back to the late 16th century, with the oldest (and perhaps the first) being a monk mummified in 1599. The mummification and burial practices continued until the early 20th century—the final burial was in 1939.

Originally built for the burial of Capuchin monks, the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo houses the interred and mummified bodies of thousands of people. In addition to the monks, there are politicians, aristocrats, and local Palermitani, rich and poor. Over the centuries, burial in the catacombs became a status symbol.

It depends. Visiting the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo is worth it for visitors who have the time and are interested in local history, occult practices, unusual experiences, or anthropology. The catacombs offer a glimpse into historical burial practices. They are spooky and striking but aren't one of Palermo's top attractions.

Yes, you can take guided tours of the Capuchin Catacombs in Palermo, but typically only with private tour companies. Employees of the catacombs may offer guidance and assistance but not official guided tours. Private tours sometimes visit both the Capuchin Catacombs and the Monreale Cathedral.