Photographer Paul Koudounaris Documents Spooky Tradition of Holy Bones Decoration in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland

Renowned photographer Paul Koudounaris has uncovered a fascinating and eerie tradition in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland – the decoration of holy bones. Dating back to the 16th century, these ancient relics were exhumed from underground catacombs and adorned with luxurious fabrics, gold, and precious stones by monks and nuns.

Koudounaris stumbled upon this macabre practice during a visit to a small German village and was captivated by the beautifully decorated skeletons he found in local churches. Intrigued, he embarked on a journey to document these “bejeweled holy relics” scattered throughout the region, resulting in the stunningly illustrated book “Heavenly Bodies: Cult Treasures & Spectacular Saints from the Catacombs.”

The opulent skeletons, inspired by the description of the Heavenly Jerusalem in the Book of Revelation, became a symbol of defiance against Protestant oppression and a focal point of popular culture. However, the tradition eventually fell out of favor, with many relics destroyed or hidden away.

Despite the decline of this practice, Koudounaris’ work ensures that these unique pieces of “bone art” are preserved for future generations to appreciate. His book and accompanying gallery showcase the intricate beauty and historical significance of these hauntingly beautiful relics, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of religious devotion and artistic expression.