This was a way to preserve status and dignity even in death, by being clothed in the latest fashions and the most expensive cloth (although monks wore their everyday clothing and any ropes they had worn as penance).

It has been rumoured that the body of Spanish painter Velasquez is at Capuchin, but the exact position is unknown.

As well as providing clothing for their deceased, and generally keeping them looking presentable, grieving relatives gave financial donations to the monastery, which helped maintain the catacombs and guarantee their loved one a permanent spot at the site.

If the relatives ceased to pay these contributions, then the body would be removed from its resting place and left on a shelf until more money arrived.

incredible...clip Alan.

Wonder what it smells like down dere?

What if when you really die, it is nothing

very interesting clip, alan!

Really, really awesome. If I remember right, that little girl is perfectly embalmed and no one knows the secret.

Amazing!