American historian and photographer – Paul Koudounaris , also known as the relic hunter “Indiana Bones” – has released a collection of photos of ancient skeletons encrusted with pearls, ivory, and pearls. Treasures were discovered in churches in Europe. Many people are skeptical about the origin, authenticity and stories behind these skeletons.

The bone cave in Oppenheim – Germany surprised many people. (Photo: Paul Koudounaris).

According to Wired, by chance, Koudounaris was told by a man about the jewel-encrusted skeleton while in East Germany and his curiosity immediately prompted him to explore. And then, the American historian found and photographed many skeletons wearing jewelry throughout European churches. These skeletons date back more than 400 years and are hidden in mysterious religious facilities. Taking photos of these skeletons is not easy because of the difficulties in the excavation process.

Skeleton of Saint Albertus. (Photo: Paul Koudounaris).

In an interview with CNN, Koudounaris talked about why they decorated the skeletons with jewelry: “ Behind the skeletons is an important message: these skeletons were transported north and then decorated in an elaborate and luxurious manner, as if to convey the message that the greatest glory is reserved for those who remain faithful to the faith and are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for that faith. .

These skeletons were brought to churches and monasteries for public display to arouse religious pride. The monks here took care of the skeleton, they even donated their own rings to help decorate the skeleton more splendidly. Koudounaris said he agrees with the plan for the display as everyone can admire them and donate to the cause of preserving these skeletons.

Decorative skull found in Heiligkreuztal – Germany. (Photo: Paul Koudounaris).

Skeleton of Saint Luciana. (Photo: Paul Koudounaris).

One of the published skeletons took up to 5 years to decorate and was found in locked coffins in ancient catacombs. Besides, there are also thousands of other skeletons excavated from Roman catacombs in the 16th century. These skeletons are scattered in several towns in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland at the request of the church. Vatican. The clergy then sent them to Catholic churches and chapels to replace relics that were destroyed during the Protestant Reformation in the 1500s.

Skeleton of Saint Valentinus. (Photo: Paul Koudounaris).

These sacred remains encrusted with jewels are also known as Catacomb Saints . This amount of pure gold and silver jewelry is worth up to thousands of dollars. After being decorated, the remains are displayed in niches in the church wall.

Skeleton of Saint Deodatus. (Photo: Paul Koudounaris).

One of Paul Koudounaris’s most interesting discoveries is the skeleton of St. Deodatus was found in Moosburg, Germany, this skeleton still has the gems embedded in it. He could not hide his joy: “The church allowed me to take the skeleton out of the box. It was truly an indescribable feeling. It seemed like there was a connection and fate had let me meet him.” Relics after 2 centuries.”

There are still many mysteries about these jewel-encrusted skeletons, many people really want to see them. These priceless bones are seen as a symbol of the newfound power of the Catholic Church in formerly Protestant areas.