Our preferred type of jewelry (aka Biker, Gothic or Rock style) originated from old school churches. Below is a photo of bleached skulls, decorated with Old English lettering, Cross motifs and Crowns, at Beinhaus (bone house) in Hallstatt - Austria.
The skulls of Beinhaus, also known as the bone house, are a unique and fascinating attraction located in the small Austrian town of Hallstatt. The Beinhaus is a chapel located next to the parish church of Hallstatt, which houses the skulls of around 1,200 people who lived in the area between the 13th and 19th centuries. The skulls are arranged in various artistic patterns and designs, creating a haunting yet beautiful display.
The origins of the Beinhaus and its collection of skulls can be traced back to the 12th century when Hallstatt was an important center for salt mining. As the town grew and became more prosperous, space in the church cemetery became limited, and the bones of the deceased were exhumed and stored in the Beinhaus to make room for new burials. Over time, the skulls were separated from the rest of the bones and arranged in artistic patterns on the walls of the chapel.
Today, the Beinhaus has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. While some may find the idea of a bone house macabre or disturbing, the skulls are actually treated with great reverence and respect by the people of Hallstatt. In fact, many of the skulls have names and stories associated with them, passed down through generations of families who lived in the area.
One of the most striking aspects of the Beinhaus is the way in which the skulls are arranged. Some are stacked in neat rows, while others are arranged in intricate patterns and designs, such as hearts, crosses, and even the initials of the deceased. The skulls are also painted with floral designs and other symbols, adding to the artistic beauty of the display.
Despite its macabre nature, the Beinhaus serves as a powerful reminder of the transience of life and the importance of remembering those who came before us. The skulls are a tangible link to the past, a reminder of the lives that were lived and the people who once walked the streets of Hallstatt. By preserving and displaying these skulls, the people of Hallstatt are ensuring that their ancestors are not forgotten and that their legacy will live on for generations to come. Through their careful preservation and display, the skulls serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering the past and honoring those who came before us.
