Communication, Collaboration, and Transparency: An Exploration of the Ethical Challenges Associated with the Analysis and Curation of Human Remains when Working with Multiple Stakeholders at the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo, Sicily

The Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo (Sicily) are an exceptional and culturally rich site and are home to the largest assemblage (n=1,284) of mummified remains in Europe. Since their inauguration (AD 1599), the catacombs have been open to visitors. The constant draw of the site to visitors holds significant ethical and logistical challenges in the curation and scientific analysis of the mummified individuals. These difficulties are further compounded by lack of investment in the site and the multiple stakeholders (e.g. descendants of the dead, Capuchin Friars, cultural heritage bodies, scientific community, and visitors), all with vested interests, involved in decision-making and the operation of the catacombs. In this paper, the ethical challenges of curating and analysing human remains at this cultural site will be explored. We will highlight that transparency, collaboration, and regular communication between all stakeholders is essential in the curation and analysis of the Capuchin mummies. It is evident that the absence of open dialogue and cooperation would ultimately mean the beliefs and wishes of the living and deceased are not respected, the mummies would experience further degradation, and scientific analysis would not be possible. In turn, this holds significant ramifications for bioarchaeology and public archaeology more broadly.