Let's See Places

Nestled in the small town of Kutná Hora, just an hour’s drive from Prague, lies one of the most macabre and fascinating sites in the Czech Republic – the Sedlec Ossuary, commonly known as the Bone Church. This small Roman Catholic chapel is estimated to contain the skeletons of between 40,000 and 70,000 people, whose bones have been artistically arranged to form decorations and furnishings for the chapel. If you’re intrigued by unusual historical sites and enjoy delving into the more curious aspects of human culture, the Sedlec Ossuary is a must-visit.

History of Sedlec Ossuary

The history of Sedlec Ossuary dates back to the 13th century when the abbot of the Sedlec monastery brought back soil from Golgotha, the site where Jesus was crucified. This made the cemetery a sought-after burial site across Central Europe. The Black Death in the 14th century and the Hussite Wars in the 15th century added thousands of burials.

In 1511, a half-blind monk began the process of exhuming skeletons to make space for new burials, stacking the bones in the chapel. In 1870, František Rint, a woodcarver, was commissioned by the Schwarzenberg family to arrange the bones into the decorative items seen today, including a massive chandelier, coats of arms, and other furnishings.

Ticket Details and Hours of Operation

• Tickets: Available online or can be purchased at the sadlec information center.
• Admission fee: Fee structure for Sadlec area (Cathedral + Ossuary) is 220 CZK for adults and 150 CZK for seniors & students and 80 CZK for children & disabled (6yrs-15yrs).
• Opening Hours (SUN to MON): Apr-Sep 9AM to 6PM, Nov-Feb 9AM to 4PM and Mar & Oct 9AM to 5PM. Closed on Dec 24th and 25th.

How to Reach Sedlec Ossuary

Location: Zámecká, 284 03 Kutná Hora 3 (Link to map)

• 🚄By Train: Take a train from Prague’s main station (Praha hlavní nádraží) to Kutná Hora. From Kutná Hora, it’s a short walk or a quick taxi ride to the ossuary. You could also take local bus from Kutná Hora station (stop name: Sedlec, kostnice).
• 🚗By Car: If you’re driving, follow the E65 highway from Prague to Kutná Hora. There’s free parking available near the ossuary.

Things to Know Before You Visit

1. Respect the Site: The ossuary is a sacred place, so visitors are expected to maintain a respectful demeanor.
2. Photography: Photography is currently prohibited! Thanks to those who went extreme to take creative shots 😄
3. Combine with Other Sites: Kutná Hora has other attractions worth visiting, such as the St. Barbara’s Church, the Italian Court, and the Czech Museum of Silver.
4. Guided Tours: While you can explore on your own, guided tours provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the ossuary. Book guided tours here in their official webiste. They offer day tour and night tour. Renting of audio guide is also available at the information center.

Visiting Sedlec Ossuary is like stepping into a hauntingly beautiful world where death and art intersect. It’s a testament to human creativity and mortality, and it continues to draw curious visitors from around the globe. If you’re in Prague, don’t miss the chance to explore this bone-adorned marvel! 🦴🕊️