Ossuary Kutna Hora, better known internationally as the Sedlec Ossuary or Bone Church, is one of the most fascinating and unusual places in the Czech Republic. Located in the Sedlec district of Kutná Hora, the chapel attracts visitors from around the world thanks to its unique interior decorated with the bones of approximately 40,000 people. So it is definitely one of the best things to do in Kutna Hora.
Although many visitors come because of the famous bone chandeliers and decorations, the ossuary is much more than a tourist attraction. It is also an important historical and religious site that reflects centuries of European history.
MY TIP: If you are planning to spend a night in Kutná Hora, I can recommend Penzion U Hrádku. It is located in the historic center and provides easy access to both the Sedlec Ossuary and other attractions in the city.
What Is the Sedlec Ossuary?
The Sedlec Ossuary is a small Roman Catholic chapel located beneath the Cemetery Church of All Saints in Sedlec. What makes it famous is its extraordinary decoration made from human bones.
The most famous features include a massive chandelier containing nearly every bone found in the human body, bone garlands, decorative pyramids, and the Schwarzenberg family coat of arms created entirely from human remains.
Today, the ossuary is one of the most visited attractions in Kutná Hora and an easy day trip from Prague.
History of the Sedlec Ossuary
The story of the ossuary begins in the 13th century when an abbot of the nearby monastery brought soil from Jerusalem and scattered it across the local cemetery. As a result, the cemetery became one of the most desirable burial places in Central Europe.
During the Black Death and the Hussite Wars, thousands of additional bodies were buried here. Over time, the cemetery became overcrowded, and the remains of older graves had to be moved.
In the 16th century, the bones were placed inside the chapel. The decoration visitors see today was largely created in 1870 by woodcarver František Rint, who organized the bones into the artistic displays that made the ossuary famous worldwide.
What Can You See Inside the Bone Church?
Although the chapel is relatively small, there are several highlights worth paying attention to during your visit.
The Bone Chandelier
The enormous chandelier hanging in the center of the chapel is the most photographed feature of the ossuary. It contains examples of almost every bone in the human body.
The Schwarzenberg Coat of Arms
One of the most impressive works inside the chapel is the coat of arms of the Schwarzenberg family. The level of detail is remarkable, especially considering that every element is made from human bones.
Bone Pyramids
Large pyramids constructed from carefully arranged bones stand in the corners of the chapel and contain the remains of thousands of people.
Is the Sedlec Ossuary Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. While the chapel itself is relatively small and most visitors spend only 20 to 40 minutes inside, it is unlike anything else you will see in the Czech Republic.
If you are interested in history, architecture, religion, or unusual places, the ossuary is well worth including in your itinerary. It is also one of the highlights of Kutná Hora alongside St. Barbara’s Church and the historic town center.
Tickets and Opening Hours
You can buy tickets to the Ossuary on-site upon arrival, or online in advance on the official website.
An adult ticket costs 220 CZK.
Another interesting (and somewhat spooky) option is to take a night tour.
The Ossuary is open daily from 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. (opening hours are extended during the summer months).
How to Get to the Ossuary Kutna Hora
The ossuary is located in the Sedlec district, approximately 2 kilometers from the historic center of Kutná Hora.
If you arrive from Prague to Kutna Hora by train, the easiest option is to get off at Kutná Hora hlavní nádraží. From there, the ossuary is within walking distance.
If you are already exploring the historic center, you can either walk, use local public transport, or take a short taxi ride.
Many visitors combine the ossuary with a visit to other attractions in the city. For transport information, attractions, and itinerary ideas, see my guide to Things to Do in Kutná Hora.
Organized Tours from Prague
If you prefer not to deal with train schedules or transportation, an organized day trip can be a convenient alternative.
This organized day trip from Prague typically combines the Sedlec Ossuary with other major attractions in Kutná Hora and is a popular choice for first-time visitors.
Where to Stay Near the Sedlec Ossuary
I would not necessarily stay in the Sedlec district itself because most visitors spend only a short amount of time there. The historic center of Kutná Hora offers a much better atmosphere and is still close enough to the ossuary.
For most travelers, I can recommend Penzion U Hrádku. Its location makes it easy to explore both the historic center and the Sedlec Ossuary while staying in one of the most attractive parts of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ossuary Kutna Hora
How many bones are in the Sedlec Ossuary?
The chapel contains the bones of approximately 40,000 people.
How much time do you need for the Sedlec Ossuary?
Most visitors spend between 20 and 40 minutes inside the chapel.
Can you visit the Sedlec Ossuary as a day trip from Prague?
Yes. Kutná Hora is one of the most popular day trips from Prague and can easily be visited in a single day.
Is photography allowed inside the Bone Church?
Photography rules can change, so it is best to check current conditions before your visit.
What is the difference between Sedlec Ossuary and Kutná Hora?
The Sedlec Ossuary is one specific attraction located in the Sedlec district of Kutná Hora. Kutná Hora itself is the historic town that contains several other important monuments.
