The History of the Capuchin Crypt Mummies Brno

The Capuchin Crypt was built in the mid-17th century. It was not intended to create mummies on purpose. Instead, the local geology and a clever ventilation system did the work. The monks used a series of vents to move dry air through the chambers. This process dried the bodies before they could decay naturally.

The friars lived a life of poverty and service. They were buried directly on the ground without traditional coffins. Each monk was laid to rest with a brick under his head. This tradition shows their commitment to humility even in death. You can learn more about these practices on the official tourism portal of the city.

Today, the crypt is a protected cultural monument. It reminds us of the fleeting nature of life. The inscription at the entrance says, "As you are, we once were; as we are, you shall be." This message stays with most visitors long after they leave the underground chambers.

Who is Buried in the Capuchin Crypt Brno Today?

There are over 150 bodies originally placed in this crypt. Only about 24 mummies remain visible to the public today. Each person has a story that connects to the history of Brno. Here are the most notable figures and sights you will see during your tour.

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): Baron Franz von der Trenck
• Quick Pick (Best for History): The Capuchin Friars
• Quick Pick (Most Unique): The Ventilation Vents

1. Name: Baron Franz von der Trenck Type: sight Why go: He is the most famous resident of the crypt. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Located in a separate, ornate metal coffin. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Walk to the main chamber. Tip: Look for his Baron Trenck display to see his unique story.
2. Name: Count Prosper Antonín of Sinzendorf Type: sight Why go: He was a major benefactor of the monastery. Best for: Learning about local nobility. Where: In the noble section of the crypt. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the path past the monks. Tip: Notice the detailed clothing remnants still visible.
3. Name: The Capuchin Friars Type: experience Why go: To see the humble burial style of the monks. Best for: Spiritual reflection. Where: The main long corridor. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Enter the first large chamber. Tip: Observe the bricks placed under their heads.
4. Name: Clement of Bavaria Type: sight Why go: He represents the royal connections of the crypt. Best for: Fans of European royalty. Where: Near the noble tombs. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Middle section of the tour. Tip: Read the plaque for his family history.
5. Name: The Grimm Family Type: sight Why go: A rare example of a family buried together here. Best for: Families and genealogists. Where: Side chapel area. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Getting there: Follow the signs for the side chambers. Tip: Check the dates on the nearby inscriptions.
6. Name: The Ventilation Vents Type: experience Why go: Understand the science behind the mummification. Best for: Science fans. Where: High on the walls of the chambers. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Look up in the main halls. Tip: Ask the guide how they regulated air flow.
7. Name: Church of the Discovery of the Holy Cross Type: sight Why go: The beautiful church located directly above the crypt. Best for: Architecture lovers. Where: Capuchin Square. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Usually free (donations welcome). Getting there: Just above the crypt entrance. Tip: Visit during the day for the best light.
8. Name: Spilberk Castle Type: day trip Why go: A massive fortress with its own dark history. Best for: A full afternoon out. Where: On the hill overlooking Brno. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Varies by exhibit. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the crypt. Tip: Visit the Spilberk Castle casemates for more underground history.
9. Name: Brno Ossuary Type: experience Why go: It is the second-largest ossuary in Europe. Best for: Those who like the macabre. Where: Under St. James Church. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: 10-minute walk north from the crypt. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for multiple Brno underground sites.
10. Name: Zelný trh (Cabbage Market) Type: experience Why go: The historic square right outside the crypt doors. Best for: Food and local atmosphere. Where: Directly outside the monastery. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to walk. Getting there: You are already there! Tip: Try the local seasonal produce from the stalls.

Planning Your Visit to the Capuchin Monastery

Visiting the crypt is a straightforward process for most travelers. It is located in the heart of the city near the main train station. You can easily reach it using the public transport system. Most trams stop at the nearby Zelný trh or Hlavní nádraží stations.

The crypt is open most days, but hours can change seasonally. It is usually closed during the lunch hour, so plan accordingly. Tickets are affordable and can be purchased at the entrance. Photography is allowed but often requires a small extra fee.

Please remember that this is a sacred burial site. Speak quietly and dress respectfully during your visit. The temperature underground is cool even in summer. Bringing a light jacket is a good idea for comfort.

Other Historical Places in Brno Near the Crypt

Brno has many other historical places in Brno to explore. After the crypt, you can walk to the Old Town Hall. It features the famous "Brno Dragon" hanging in the entrance. The views from the tower are some of the best in the city.

If you enjoy history, the national tourism board recommends the Labyrinth under the Cabbage Market. This is a system of tunnels used for food storage in the Middle Ages. It is located just steps away from the Capuchin Monastery.

For a change of pace, visit the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. Its towers dominate the skyline. The bells ring at 11:00 AM instead of noon due to a local legend. This is a great spot for photos and quiet reflection.