Fontanelle cemetery, Underground ossuary in Materdei district, Naples, Italy.
The Fontanelle cemetery is an archaeological burial site in the Materdei district of Naples, Italy. Natural caves carved into the volcanic hillside preserve millions of human remains arranged in rows and niches throughout the underground chambers.
The caves served as a mass grave starting in 1656 during a plague epidemic that devastated Naples. Later, Father Gaetano Barbati organized the scattered bones in 1872, creating the current arrangement of remains.
During the 19th century, local residents adopted individual skulls as personal patrons, lighting candles and offering prayers in exchange for protection. This bond between the living and the nameless dead transformed the cave into a space of private devotion and hope.
Guided tours through the cave system are organized by Cooperativa Sociale La Paranza at Via Fontanelle 80. The visit involves descending into the tunnels, so comfortable footwear is recommended for the uneven ground.
Some skulls still carry small tokens or coins left by visitors as gestures of gratitude. These personal offerings reflect the ongoing dialogue between Neapolitans and the nameless souls resting below the city.
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