Church of San Bernardino alle Ossa

The church of San Bernardino alle Ossa and its ossuary chapel

Among the many churches of Milan, San Bernardino alle Ossa stands out by a striking particularity: its ossuary chapel, decorated with thousands of bones. The Milan audio-guided tour stops here with respect to evoke this unusual place full of spirituality, a witness of an old relationship with death.

A chapel decorated with bones

The church of San Bernardino alle Ossa is best known for its chapel, whose walls are decorated with thousands of bones and skulls, arranged in a decorative manner. This macabre but spiritual tradition goes back several centuries, to a time when death was omnipresent. The place invites a meditation on the fragility of existence, in a setting unique to Milan.

What to see

The ossuary chapel, with its walls covered with bones, is striking and prompts contemplation. The church itself keeps a richly decorated baroque interior. It is a singular and moving stop, to be approached with respect, for visitors curious about an uncommon heritage, in the heart of Milan.

Practical information

The church of San Bernardino alle Ossa lies in the heart of Milan, reachable on foot. A working place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services and for the particular character of the ossuary; entry is generally free, but hours vary by day and season. It is best to check them before coming.

What is special about the church of San Bernardino alle Ossa?

Its ossuary chapel, whose walls are decorated with thousands of bones and skulls, makes it a unique and striking place of Milan.

Can you visit the church of San Bernardino alle Ossa?

Yes, a working place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; entry is generally free and hours vary by day and season.