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Capuchin Crypt

The tomb hidden under the Church of the Finding of the Holy Cross in the picturesque Capuchin Square.

The final resting place of more than one hundred and fifty Capuchins.

The natural mummification of the bodies was caused by an ingenious ventilation system that had ventilated the crypt for centuries.

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On the dates of 13, 18 and 19 March, due to the preparation of the event, the comfort of the tours in Water Tower No. 2 will be reduced.

Naturally mummified bodies of friars and Baroque painted coffins

The Capuchins came to Brno at the invitation of the Bishop of Olomouc and Cardinal Francis of Dietrichstein. Their first monastery was razed to the ground by the Swedish siege of Brno, and the second one was built inside the walls at the Coal Market (today's Capuchin Square). An integral part of every Capuchin monastery is a crypt where the bodies of deceased religious and benefactors of the order were deposited. Burial in the Brno crypt began in February 1656 and the practice was only ended by the reform of the burial system initiated by Emperor Joseph II in 1784, during which time around 150 Capuchins and 50 benefactors found their final resting place here. Thanks to an ingenious ventilation system, the bodies were naturally mummified and many of the original Baroque painted coffins have been preserved. Visitors who have been able to stop at this place of remembrance for more than 140 years are still attracted by the simple way in which the Capuchins accompanied their dead on their final journey. They are also fascinated by the story of the famous commander of the Pandurs, František Baron Trenck, who at the end of his turbulent and exuberant life became a penitent and wished to be buried on bare ground like the Capuchins.

Are you interested in the history of burial in Brno? Don't miss a visit OSSUARY AT ST. JAMES’ CHURCH.