Skulls and Bones

In a number of crypts, catacombs, chapels, and memorials around the world, human skeletons are arranged for public view. Some of these compositions are designed for remembrance of loss and atrocities past; others are composed artistically to inspire worshipers and bring to mind thoughts of an afterlife and the temporary nature of this life. Gathered here are a few images of these ossuaries, from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Read more
Hints: View this page full screen. Skip to the next and previous photo by typing j/k or ←/→.

Most Recent

  • Paul Morigi / Getty

    A Collection of Cherry Blossoms

    Images of flowering cherry-blossom trees across the Northern Hemisphere

  • Julio Cortez / AP

    Photos: Damage From the Tornado Outbreak in Mississippi

    Images from the small town of Rolling Fork, which was struck by a destructive EF4 tornado

  • Anupam Nath / AP

    Photos of the Week: Sky Bar, Kansas Sunset, Flooded Fields

    Drought conditions in Spain, heavy snow in California, the Fallas Festival in Spain, the start of Ramadan in Indonesia, cherry blossoms in Japan, a sandstorm in Inner Mongolia, and much more

  • Agung Parameswara / Getty

    Ogoh-ogoh Parades Welcome the Balinese New Year

    Giant demonic effigies are carried through the streets of Bali, then burned in purification ceremonies.