Capuchin Crypt

The Capuchin Crypt, which during the years 1656–1784 was used to inter the brothers and benefactors of the order, is found below the Relic of the True Cross Church on Capuchin Square. The ingenious ventilation system, which over the centuries kept the crypt well aired, caused the bodies of the deceased to naturally mummify. Also preserved here are a series of original Baroque painted coffins. In total, the site was the burial place for about two hundred souls, about one hundred and fifty of whom were Capuchin friars.

The crypt documents the history of the Capuchin Franciscan Order in an unusual way. Even today, visitors are invariably intrigued at the simple manner in which friars accompanied their dead on their final journey. Similarly fascinating is the story of the infamous commander of the Pandur infantry unit, Baron Franz von der Trenck, who at the end of his tumultuous and unbridled existence turned penitent, and wished to be interred on bare ground like a Capuchin friar.

The underground church is also testimony to the friendship between the community of friars and others who assisted them, and who even wished to follow them to their place of final rest. And maybe they too in life learnt the “art of dying”, inspired by the images presented here in the unique Baroque frescoes of the exhibition Ars Moriendi. The crypt has been open to visitors for over 140 years.