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Klatovy Catacombs: Mummified History
Explore the chilling Klatovy Catacombs: a unique 17th-century burial site with naturally mummified remains under a Jesuit church.
Descend into the eerie Klatovy Catacombs, a 17th-century burial site beneath the Jesuit Church. A unique ventilation system naturally mummified the bodies of Jesuits and local nobles, offering a fascinating and slightly unsettling glimpse into the past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Catacombs
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
9 am-6 pm
Tuesday
9 am-6 pm
Wednesday
9 am-6 pm
Thursday
9 am-6 pm
Friday
9 am-6 pm
Saturday
9 am-6 pm
Sunday
9 am-6 pm
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Getting There
Walking
The Klatovy Catacombs are located in the center of Klatovy at Denisova 148, making them easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Klatovy's main square (náměstí Míru), walk east along Vídeňská street, then turn right onto Denisova street. The entrance to the catacombs will be on your right, a short distance down the street. The walk is short and straightforward.
Public Transport
Klatovy is accessible by bus and train from Plzeň. From the Klatovy bus or train station, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the catacombs. From the train station, head north on Domažlická street, then turn left onto Denisova street. From the bus station, head west on Nádražní street, then turn right onto Denisova street. Follow Denisova street to number 148. A single bus or train fare from Plzeň to Klatovy costs approximately 75-170 CZK.
Driving
If driving, navigate to Denisova 148, Klatovy. Parking is available in the vicinity, with several paid parking zones nearby. Parking Zone A1 and Zone B are both within walking distance. Zone A1 costs 20 CZK per hour , while Zone B costs 10 CZK per hour or 60 CZK for the whole day. Be aware that street parking may be limited.
Local tips
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Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
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Wear comfortable shoes as the pathways can be uneven and slippery.
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Bring a light jacket; the temperature in the catacombs can be quite cool.
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Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Discover more about Catacombs
The Klatovy Catacombs, located beneath the Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary and St. Ignatius, offer a unique and chilling journey into the past. Constructed between 1656 and 1676, the crypts served as a final resting place for members of the Jesuit order and their benefactors. What sets these catacombs apart is the sophisticated ventilation system designed to naturally mummify the bodies.
Over 200 individuals were interred here between 1676 and 1783. The ingenious system drew cold air in through wall vents and expelled warm air through chimneys reaching the church's roof, resulting in the gradual desiccation and preservation of the bodies. This process created natural mummies, offering a glimpse into the lives and appearances of 17th and 18th-century citizens.
In 1784, Emperor Joseph II forbade burials in crypts for hygienic reasons, bringing an end to the catacombs' primary function. Over time, parts of the crypt were repurposed, disrupting the ventilation and causing some mummies to decay. In 1937, 140 deteriorated mummies were reburied. Today, conservators and climatologists work to preserve the remaining mummies, with approximately 30 on display.
Visitors can explore the catacombs through guided tours or individual visits, with audio guides available in multiple languages. The museum section showcases the activities of the Jesuit order and life in Klatovy during the 17th and 18th centuries.
A brief summary to Catacombs
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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