And now for something really strange–and not recommended for children–is a visit to the Catacombe dei Cappuccini, or Capuchin Catacombs, of Palermo. This series of underground corridors houses approximately 8,000 mummified bodies and skeletons of Palermitani of all ages who died between the late 16th century and early 20th century. The “inhabitants” are separated by class, gender, religion, and professional status. The unique environmental conditions have preserved the corpses in excellent condition.

(Photo credit: Experience Sicily’s Filippo Buttitta)