Cimitero dei Cappuccini, Historical burial catacombs in Palermo, Italy.
The Capuchin Cemetery is an underground burial site in Palermo containing over 8000 preserved bodies arranged in catacomb passages. The corridors are organized by gender, profession, and social status, forming a complex network beneath the city.
The Capuchin monks began using these catacombs in 1599 when burial space above ground ran out. Brother Silvestro of Gubbio became the first person interred in the underground passages, marking the start of this unusual burial practice.
The cemetery reflects the social divisions of its era, with the deceased arranged by profession, gender, and social class in separate areas. This layout shows how burial was understood as a way to maintain identity and status even after death.
The underground passages stay cool year-round, so bring warm clothing for your visit. Access to the catacombs is straightforward, but be prepared for tight corridors and dim lighting as you explore this extensive underground network.
The body of Rosalia Lombardo, who died in 1929 at age two, displays remarkable preservation through specialized embalming techniques. Her remains appear almost lifelike, making her one of the world's best-preserved human remains.
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