Italy's Creepiest Museum Is A Historic Spot In Rome That Will Leave You Feeling Unsettled

xamnesiacx84/Shutterstock

For those looking for a city with a touch of the macabre, Rome should definitely be on your travel bucket list. The Eternal City is steeped in thousands of years of history, so, of course, there are quite a few ghost stories and unexplained mysteries among the many things you can learn about while visiting some of the interesting sites. Though not always for the faint of heart, one of these sites includes the Museo Delle Anime Del Purgatorio (Museum of the Holy Souls in Purgatory), a tiny museum inside a beautiful church with a fascinating origin story.

Located close to the riverbank, inside the Chiesa del Sacro Cuore del Suffragio in the Prati neighborhood in Rome, is a small, one-room museum with various artifacts showing mysterious handprints on them. The claim is that the hand prints on each item in the museum are from departed souls who are in purgatory, a place in the afterlife where Catholics believe the soul must go to purge its sins before moving on to heaven. People have described the prints as being burn marks left behind by these dead spirits, and they have appeared on items like books (usually religious texts), pieces of clothing, original papers or photographs of documents, wooden tablets, and more that have been collected by the museum.

The museum has a mysterious history

Only Fabrizio/Shutterstock

The Chiesa del Sacro Cuore del Suffragio is a neo-Gothic church that was completed in 1917, but before that, the building was the site of a different chapel that mysteriously burned down in 1897. According to the church's history, one of the priests, a French-born missionary named Victor Jouet, claimed that he and other onlookers saw a face with a pained expression imprinted in the flame as well as the ashes of the fire. The priest took this experience as evidence that the face belonged to a soul trapped in purgatory. After the fire, Jouet started to collect other items from all over Europe that contained these imprints, which are now on display (all behind glass casings to protect the items from further damage). There is no evidence to show that these items were, in fact, touched by lost souls in purgatory, but the story is still fascinating (and perhaps a little unnerving) to those who enjoy a good mystery.

Of course, there are many must-see churches in Rome, so it's easy to miss the Chiesa del Sacro Cuore del Suffragio since it is smaller and a little newer than some of the other religious sites in the city. On its own, the neo-Gothic style has earned the church the moniker "the little Milan cathedral" since it bears resemblance to the Duomo in Milan. There is no specific website for the church or the museum, so it's important to plan ahead by contacting the church directly for visiting hours and be sure to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, when you enter as a sign of respect.

Other spooky attractions in Rome

Felix Lipov/Shutterstock

If you are looking for similar spooky experiences in Rome, you can walk east or take the metro to the famous Capuchin Crypt located below the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, where there are a succession of rooms with elaborate displays of actual bones of deceased Capuchin monks. There are also lots of haunted history and ghost tours that will take you all around the city, so you're bound to run into many opportunities to explore its spooky side no matter where you go. History lovers, in particular, would enjoy a tour of the Catacombs of Santa Domitilla, an old underground cemetery and church that dates all the way back to the Roman Empire.

Prati is a beautiful neighborhood that is a little further away from the usual tourist traps. There are plenty of intimate bars, restaurants, and lots of shopping, so you're bound to run into a nice local coffee shop or cafe after your visit. There are also several other major tourist sites in and around Prati, including the Castel Sant'Angelo, a medieval fortress that's a popular destination for history buffs, as well as Vatican City if you walk about half an hour west of the museum. According to Visit Rome, there are also over 900 churches in the city, so you could spend weeks visiting every one of them. And while all of them are unique in their own way, few rival the eerieness you can find at the Museum of the Holy Souls in Purgatory.

Couples Will Swoon Over These Romantic Destinations In Fiji

Courtneyk/Getty Images

A grouping of about 300 islands scattered across the South Pacific like seeds in an endless field of blue, Fiji is a tropical paradise through and through. The nation sits at about 1,300 miles, almost due north of New Zealand, and is east of Australia, nestled among other South Pacific idylls like Vanuatu, Tonga, and New Caledonia.

This is a destination where travelers can forget the daily grind and unwind amid sun, sea, and plenty of soft sand. Visitors to the islands of Fiji will find not only mountains, forests, rivers, and expanses of improbably clear water but also a culturally rich and incredibly hospitable people that traces its heritage to Melanesia, Polynesia, and India.

To top it off, English is widely spoken, which is certainly a bonus for tourists visiting from the United States, especially those seeking a romantic island getaway. Fiji's strong tourism industry is helped by numerous resorts across its islands, where couples will find scenery, facilities, and vistas that will effortlessly weave a merry spell of romance.

Beqa Lagoon Resort

For couples on vacation, few things are as pleasurable as being close to one another in a plunge pool, the sense of intimacy and privacy amplified by the compactness of the space. At Beqa Lagoon Resort, a number of the bungalows, or "bures" as they are known in Fiji, come with their own pool. It's just one of the lures of the air-conditioned accommodations that are decorated in a classic Fijian vernacular.

They are great spots for a couple to hide away, either in the garden or on the sundeck, but much more awaits at the Beqa Lagoon Resort, a property that sits on 10 acres of greenery and blooms. Book a stay, and visitors can arrange for dinner taken by candlelight, catch a boat to a quiet island for a picnic on the beach, or hit the spa for a couple's massage, taken to the sounds of the sea and birds.

Castaway Island Fiji

Travelers only need to look at the name of this private island property to get an idea of the atmosphere to expect. Couples will feel like true castaways, miles from the stress of the daily grind. The resort is small enough to easily explore, but large enough that the destination never feels overrun, spreading across 174 acres of thick, vibrant rainforest.

Couples will find much to admire at Castaway Island Fiji, starting with its romantic and private bures with thatched roofs and soaring, vaulted ceilings finished in tapa (a cloth produced from the bark of the mulberry tree that is used throughout the South Pacific).

The bungalows have views of the sea or gardens and plenty of spaces where couples can unwind and soak up the tropical vibe. For a meal with a view to remember, guests can head to Water's Edge, a beachfront restaurant that opens to striking sunsets over the sea.

Como Laucala Island

The thrill of arrival at this private island is hard to beat — it's by plane, landing directly on Laucala Island at the resort's own private airstrip. That deep vein of opulence from the get-go heightens the experience of any couple that stays at Como Laucala Island. Rooms are not just standard boxes with a small space but extravagant full homes. They are huge, starting at more than 8,000 square feet for the Udu Residence, where the views of forests and the sea will make couples coo in delight.

Small details stand out in these cosseting cocoons, like those that have private pools that are dug into the rock and others that have their own section of beach. In typical Como fashion, wellness is an important part of the experience, from the thoughtful, nourishing cuisine to a hilltop spa where couples can take a workshop on how to give one another an effective back massage.

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

The name of this resort is synonymous with sea exploration — Jean-Michel Cousteau's famous father, Jacques Cousteau, was a pioneer in the realm of underwater adventure and is credited with the invention of scuba diving. Given that, it might be of little surprise that diving is a key component of a stay here.

The clear, turquoise waters of Savusavu Bay are right in front of Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, and the property has its own dive center and marine biologist, so adventurous couples can easily strap on their gear and leap into the wild blue yonder.

Even for non-diving duos, there is so much to appreciate. The spa offers couple's massages, which proudly use locally sourced products like pineapple, papaya, and coconut oil. Trips to remote corners on a sailboat, dinners on the beach under the stars, and hikes in the rainforest are all ways in which couples can revel in the environment together.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort

The name of this resort translates to "calm waters," and that serenity will be evident to couples staying in overwater bungalows. Arrayed like a string of precious jewels, these rooms at the Likuliku Lagoon Resort will entice couples, hovering above a lagoon where the water is a shimmering blue. A twosome might find itself hypnotized by the sea while sprawled on a daybed with a chilled libation in hand, watching the marine life swim to and fro right below, or gazing over the still shallows from an oversized bathtub.

The over-water bures showcase local traits, from the gleaming wood to thatch roofs to the liberal employment of magimagi, a fabric made from coconut husk. For a special meal, the staff can arrange for a picnic at its private island, Mociu. The property is only open to adults, so moments of delicate romance won't be shattered by the piercing shrieks of an irked kid.

Kokomo Private Island

Sunsets are often a part of the day that draws the romantically inclined, but sunrise on a kayak above crystal clear waters is also something special. This is one of the activities available at Kokomo Private Island, a luxury resort on its own isle that also lets guests try their hand at deep-sea fishing, diving, sailing a catamaran, yoga sessions, swimming in natural waterfalls, tours of local villages, and so much more.

After all that exertion, couples can retreat to the Yaukuve Spa Sanctuary for a soothing treatment or just hang out by the pool, cocktail in hand. That is, of course, if they ever manage to leave the rooms, palatial spreads that are like their own empires.

Accommodations are divided between villas and residences, though the latter are designed for larger groups. Villas, of which there are 21, have private pools flanked by plush loungers, a beautifully landscaped garden, and a sun deck that opens up into a private courtyard.

Matamanoa Island

Another property that is reserved for adults, Matamanoa Island ensures that a couple's reverie and love-laden glances won't be interrupted by a screaming youngster. Located less than 20 miles west of Nadi International Airport, the intimate property has fewer than 50 rooms and sits on an island that rises sharply to a central peak, the remnants of a volcano that gives the island a dramatic lift.

The contours of the isle are blanketed in dense bush and palm trees — the effect combining to make it a realm of dense greenery — ringed by brilliant white sand shorelines sitting among an expanse of turquoise and deep blue. Couples will find plenty to keep them entertained, from snorkeling excursions among the healthy reefs that sit just offshore to a leisurely dip in the infinity pool that, visually, seems to merge right into the sea. They also might get a massage that uses products made from local sea grapes.

Matangi Private Island Resort

This private island is also designed only for adults, making it a reliable refuge for couples in search of some rest and romance. The views are certainly likely to send your heart aflutter, with vistas of beaches, clear water, and dense rainforests in seemingly every direction.

Matangi Private Island Resort sits on an island shaped like a horseshoe, or like the broad grin visible on a couple's faces upon arrival, and has coral reefs that are a match for the beautiful landscapes. Duos can take casual strolls along the beach, or arrange for an intimate picnic on the waterfront, right by Horseshoe Bay.

There's also great wildlife spotting, from birds like the easily seen Orange Dove to a nightly procession of fruit bats going out to feed from their caves. Mountain goats and native wild fowl freely roam around the island. During a meal, guests might sample a mango, avocado, or papaya grown on the island while sipping on their choice of Australian and New Zealand wines as well as French Champagnes.

Namale Resort and Spa

For fans of adult-only all-inclusive resorts, Namale Resort and Spa is a smart choice, a property that spreads across 525 acres of one of the main islands, Vanua Levu. Boredom doesn't enter any calculation here, with scores of excursions on offer. Couples can spend their time snorkeling around the coral or exploring tide pools or reefs at low tide, suiting up for some scuba, or venturing around the coast on a paddleboard or kayak.

On land, options include walks to quiet waterfalls, visiting the entertainment center for bowling and private movies, or hitting up the "lover's deck" for a private lunch and a dip in a heart-shaped hot tub.

The spa is a slice of nirvana, a 10,000 square foot refuge set on cliffs above the Koro Sea, where local bounty like noni and the dilo nut are used to stunning effect in traditional treatments. These restorative specialties, coupled with the reassuring sea breeze, will send couples into a sense of tranquil bliss.

Nanuku Resort

From the sea, looking at the beachfront Nanuku Resort, it might be hard to even make out the buildings of the property since they are cleverly tucked away within the dense foliage. The estate is well-versed in the language of love and regularly hosts couples with a healthy history of hosting destination weddings.

Couples will find much to adore in the large villas, like the light, breezy hues and design, as well as the proximity to a two-mile-long stretch of beach. They come with plenty of outdoor space, plunge pools, and views of the striking Beqa Lagoon.

Romantic meals grace a variety of settings — think a deck set by a dilo tree high in the canopy, a table placed on the sand right by the lapping water, and a secluded clifftop that comes with sunset views. Dishes include a healthy assortment of locally caught seafood and South Pacific produce.

Royal Davui Island

Royal Davui Island, Fiji

This private island is small, a speck on the landscape, but it never feels busy thanks to the intimate size of Royal Davui Island — the property can house a maximum of 32 guests. The sense of privacy is helped by the smart positioning of buildings, carefully separated by dense landscaping, making them disappear into nature. The property is adults-only and all-inclusive, so couples will feel right at home, whether taking a stroll along the sumptuous white-sand beach or embracing in a pool as the sun wanes.

The lodgings, separated into villas and bungalows, have a clear sense of place, with the classic regional thatch roof as standard and Fijian touches evident throughout. All rooms come with an outdoor shower and private pool that is, depending on the location, a great spot for savoring the sunrise or sunset. For a treat, couples can book a picnic at an isolated outer island or tidal sandbar just a seven-minute boat ride away.

Shangri-La Yanuca Island

A large property in Fiji — and set on its own private island — Shangri-La Yanuca Island has 443 rooms, all of which come with views of the South Pacific. And yet, it's not remote, about 26 miles from Nadi International Airport. The property celebrates local culture ostensibly, from rooms with local woods and shells heavily represented in the decor to its overall planning, which mimics a Fijian village.

Couples can play a round at the nine-hole golf course or get wild and wet at the water park set in a lagoon, but for more romantic episodes, they can visit Chi (the spa), have a meal overlooking the water at Beach Bar & Grill, or have a dreamy, late-night cocktail at the swish Black Marlin Tropical Bar. For duets preferring to be away from kids, Reef Wing is set aside for adults only, a resort within a resort that has a separate arrival and check-in process.

Six Senses Fiji

The sun, sea, and sand are often the reasons that couples come to Fiji, but Six Senses Fiji has something on site that's a little out of the ordinary — iguana conservation as one of its driving missions. There are 39 critically endangered Fijian Crested iguanas on the property (more than double the amount that was here when the hotel opened in 2018), and couples might have luck in spotting one around the property.

Sustainability is central to Six Senses' philosophy, with the resort generating all its power from solar energy. Duos can find ways to fold sustainable practices into their stay, such as taking a workshop on how to make jewelry from trash. Rooms are divided between 24 villas, all of which have private pools. The curling sandy beach sits close to a house reef, a great couple snorkeling spot. Couples can also snuggle up at the outdoor cinema and watch a movie under the stars, relax at the spa, or enjoy a cocktail at the Rara Restaurant and Bar.

Tokoriki Island Resort

Flowers are everywhere at this adults-only beach resort — sprinkled on a bed throw, tucked behind the ears of staff, and seen throughout the clipped, polished landscaping. Couples can arrive at Tokoriki Island Resort in style via a helicopter that lands at the end of a pier, though a speedboat or catamaran ride are other transfer options. Villas and bures make up the lodging choices, with 36 rooms able to house 72 guests at the property. Couples will prize the design of the accommodations, with all of them freestanding, extremely private, and featuring outdoor showers.

The spa, with walls made of volcanic rock, might be another place where duos spend large chunks of time, especially considering its three-day, unlimited massage package, which is available to couples. For a really romantic evening, another service features a couple's massage in the room before a sunset meal served by a private butler, with staff musicians providing a soundtrack during the dusky hours.

Tropica Island Resort

The setting of Tropica Island Resort — which sits on a quiet bay on Malolo Island, west of the international airport at Nadi — certainly manufactures a sense of romance. What makes the resort even more intimate is its size, with only 24 rooms at the beachfront property that only accepts adults as guests, making it a haven for couples. Guests will find ample opportunities for quiet time alone, whether a romantic walk along the beach — especially good at sunset since the property sits on the west of the island — or in bright rooms with vaulted ceilings and colorful artwork.

The sense of amour can be weaved into many experiences at the resort, starting with treatments at the spa or a romantic waterfront meal at Lakalaka Restaurant, where the pleasing sea breeze and twinkling stars are constant companions. Guests can savor dishes that feature plenty of locally caught seafood, and that strongly reflect local flavors and cuisine, keeping bellies full and spirits high.

Turtle Island

Romance is in the DNA of this resort, which has just 14 villas and can welcome 14 couples before being at full capacity. Turtle Island is both a private island resort and also an all-inclusive one, and as a contrast to its limited number of rooms, it has a wealth of beaches, so couples could easily find themselves alone on one of 12 private beaches during a stay.

The sense of privacy here is hard to overstate, and couples can take meals in the dining room, in their own villa, or even under the moonlight aboard a pontoon afloat in the water; it's all part of the deal (drinks and cocktails are included in the all-inclusive rate). Couples are just as likely to fall in love with the location as with each other — the waters of the Blue Lagoon, which sits around the property, is mesmerizing and is home to rays, octopus, and, you guessed it, turtles.

Vomo Island

This private island manages to tread a fine line by appealing to both families and couples, though the latter can pad their experience with time in the adults-only zone, The Rocks. Vomo Island spreads across over 255 acres of densely forested land and features a nine-hole golf course and plenty of hiking options around its steeply inclined hills — not to mention the water that surrounds it, ready to be explored via snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming.

As its name suggests, The Rocks is set atop a rocky plateau on the west of the island and contains everything that a couple might need to spend the day away from the company of kids and families. There is a large pool with cabana daybeds along one flank, a deck with loungers and seating under umbrellas, and a cocktail bar and restaurant for gustatory needs. The sunset views, naturally, are exceptional. Villas, set near the beach or on the slopes of a hill, display plenty of local timber and rattan in their design, making you feel right at home and one with the gorgeous Fijian island.

Yawasa Island Resort and Spa

A long, skinny island that looks a little like an archer's bow, Yasawa Island sits north of Viti Levu (the island that is home to Nadi International Airport). It's a place that's largely wild and untouched — in fact, it has only one resort on it, Yawasa Island Resort and Spa. Thankfully, the resort hasn't gone the mass tourism route and has only 18 bungalows — but 11 private beaches, so for couples in search of romantic seclusion in Fiji, this place should be high on the list. There are also certain times of the year when children are prohibited.

For long walks on the beach with nary another person in sight, this resort fits the bill, and couples will encounter warm water, long sections of sand backed by cliffs and forests, and a rewarding sense of escape. The property is all-inclusive, and that extends not just to meals and beverages but also excursions like visits to one of the six villages on the island, a fascinating foray into local culture that will stay with couples long after they have checked out.