Discover the Mummies Museum of Burgio: a blend of history, mystery, and Franciscan traditions that captures the authenticity of Sicily in the heart of Agrigento province.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARCO CRUPI

In the heart of Burgio, a charming village in Agrigento province, lies one of Sicily’s most fascinating and mysterious attractions: the Mummies Museum. Located inside the Capuchin Convent, this unique museum tells a captivating story that weaves together history, tradition, and faith.

The Capuchin Convent of Burgio, built between 1634 and 1647, is a significant example of Franciscan architecture in Sicily. Its construction was authorized by Pope Urban VIII, who granted the request to demolish the previous convent in the Arabici district and build a new one closer to the town center.

The building stands out for its simplicity, typical of the Capuchin order: a single-nave church with a gabled roof and a bell tower. Inside, visitors can admire notable works of art, including an 18th-century canvas attributed to Zoppo di Gangi depicting the “Seven Sacraments.”

Particularly intriguing is the crypt beneath the church, once used as a burial site for friars and local benefactors. During restoration work, numerous mummies dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries were found here, providing a fascinating glimpse into the mummification practices adopted by the Capuchins.

After a period of abandonment, the convent underwent extensive restoration, preserving its architectural integrity and highlighting its historical features. Today, the Capuchin Convent of Burgio serves as an important cultural site, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich religious traditions of Sicily.

The discovery of 49 mummies in the crypt has turned this place into a treasure trove of history and tradition. The mummies, found in remarkable condition, demonstrate the mummification techniques employed by the Capuchin friars between the 17th and 19th centuries.

Mummification was a complex process that required a deep understanding of preservation techniques. The friars would remove the internal organs, dry the bodies, and treat them with aromatic ointments. The bodies were then filled with straw and wrapped in fine fabrics. Each detail was carefully tended to: the deceased were dressed in elaborate clothing and accompanied by personal items such as rosaries, scapulars, and even shoes and hats.

These mummies are not only a testament to the technical skill of the Capuchins but also a reflection of the society of the time. The clothing and funerary items tell stories of faith, social status, and devotion.

Over the centuries, the crypt and mummies required interventions to ensure their preservation. Thanks to European Union funding, an extensive restoration project was undertaken, involving experts and craftsmen. Architect Umberto Di Cristina led the work, preserving the simplicity and austerity of the Franciscan convent.

The restoration of the mummies was equally meticulous. Each body underwent pest removal and disinfection to maintain their integrity. Skeletons and fabrics were treated separately to ensure every detail was respected.

This extraordinary work transformed the crypt into a true museum, making the mummies accessible to visitors in a context rich with cultural and historical value.

The Mummy Museum offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The mummies are displayed in the convent’s crypt, in an exhibition that maintains a respectful and evocative atmosphere.

To arrange a visit, you need to contact the Tourist Office of the Municipality of Burgio, which handles bookings and guided tours. The experience is made even more meaningful by the knowledgeable guides, who explain the mummification techniques and the historical details linked to the convent.

Visiting hours and tour arrangements may vary, so it is always advisable to check in advance to plan your trip accordingly.