The Eerie Charm of Portugal's Chapel of Bones

Nestled within the Church of Saint Francis in Évora lies one of Portugal’s most unforgettable landmarks—the Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos). Often referred to as the Chapel of Bones Portugal or simply the Évora Chapel of Bones, this haunting site is both eerie and fascinating. Built entirely from human bones and skulls, it serves as a striking reminder of life’s impermanence. For centuries, visitors have entered this solemn space not only out of curiosity but also for reflection, inspired by the chilling inscription above its door: “We bones that are here, await yours.”

What Is the History of the Bone Chapel in Portugal?

The Chapel of Bones in Évora was built in the 16th century by Franciscan monks. At that time, Évora had over 40 cemeteries, and space was becoming scarce. To address the issue, the monks exhumed thousands of remains and gave them a new purpose—decorating the walls and columns of this remarkable ossuary.

But the chapel was not created only out of necessity. The Franciscans wanted to send a powerful spiritual message: that life on earth is fleeting, and death unites all people regardless of wealth, status, or power. The result is one of Portugal’s most famous Churches of Bones, where architecture and faith intertwine in a chillingly beautiful way.

How Many Chapels of Bones Are There in Portugal?

While the Chapel of Bones in Évora is the most famous, Portugal has several others worth mentioning:

• Faro: Inside the Carmelite Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo is another Chapel of Bones, built in 1816. Its walls are adorned with the bones of more than 1,000 monks.

• Alcantarilha: This small town in the Algarve is home to another lesser-known ossuary, also constructed with human remains.

Although Évora’s chapel is the largest and most visited, these additional sites highlight Portugal’s broader tradition of using bone chapels as spaces for meditation and reflection.

How Many People Are in the Chapel of Bones?

The Évora Chapel of Bones contains the remains of an estimated 5,000 people. These bones, collected from city cemeteries, are carefully arranged across walls, pillars, and arches. The chapel also displays two full skeletons—one of an adult and one of a child—hanging from the wall, a striking reminder of mortality and the inevitability of death.

This staggering number makes Évora’s chapel not only the most famous in Portugal but also one of the most extraordinary ossuaries in Europe.

What Is the History of the Church of Bones?

The Church of Bones refers to the Capela dos Ossos itself, located within the Church of Saint Francis. The church was built in the late 15th and early 16th centuries in Gothic-Manueline style, and the chapel was later added by the Franciscans.

This decision was heavily influenced by the Counter-Reformation, a time when the Catholic Church emphasized spiritual discipline and humility. By confronting visitors with thousands of bones, the monks reminded them of the shortness of earthly life and the importance of preparing for the afterlife. Today, the chapel continues to serve as a space for reflection, inviting travelers to ponder the same truths as those who built it centuries ago.

Visiting the Chapel of Bones in Évora

For travelers exploring Portugal, the Chapel of Bones Évora is an unforgettable stop. While the atmosphere may seem unsettling at first, many visitors leave with a sense of peace and perspective. The artistry of the bone arrangements, the history behind the chapel, and the philosophical message it conveys make it one of the most remarkable cultural and spiritual experiences in Portugal.

Whether you call it the Chapel of Bones Portugal, the Évora Chapel of Bones, or simply the Chapel of Bones, this hauntingly beautiful monument offers a journey into history, faith, and the eternal truth that unites us all.

Ready for a Chillingly Unique Experience?

Whether you're drawn to Portugal’s haunting history, religious landmarks, or simply seeking a new destination for Halloween travel, the Chapel of Bones in Évora delivers an unforgettable experience. Let us help you plan a custom journey that brings Portugal’s rich past—and its ghosts—to life. Start planning your trip to Évora with Quest Travel Adventures today. Our most popular trips to Evora include the Alentejo and Algarve Self-Drive Exploration and the Lisbon and Alentejo Luxury Getaway.