Capela dos Ossos, which means the "Chapel of Bones" in English, is a unique chapel located in Évora, Portugal. It is also known as the Church of St. Francis. This chapel is famous for its interior walls, which are covered in human bones and skulls. It was built in the 16th century by Franciscan monks who wanted to send a message about the transience of life and the inevitability of death. The chapel is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.
The chapel is small and has a simple architectural style with an unadorned exterior. The interior, however, is a macabre spectacle, with thousands of human bones and skulls lining the walls, pillars, and arches. The bones and skulls come from the graves of monks and local cemeteries. The decorations include a skeleton holding a scythe, and an inscription in Portuguese that translates to "We bones that are here, for yours we wait." It is a haunting but fascinating display that highlights the fragility of human life.
The Capela dos Ossos is located within the Church of St. Francis, which is itself a beautiful building. The church has a Gothic architectural style, with intricate carvings and stained glass windows. It was built in the 13th century, and it has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries. In addition to the Capela dos Ossos, the church also houses several other chapels, and it is home to the Museu de Évora, a museum that showcases the city's rich history and culture.