The Inn at the Agora, created from the former rectory of Lewiston’s St. Patrick’s Church in Maine, just announced the opening of the Hotel Crypt, a novelty lodging experience forged from a crypt in the neighboring chapel of the former St. Patrick’s Church.
The crypt room was occupied for over 100 years by the builder and original priest of the church, Monsignor Thomas Wallace, whose body was moved to Mt. Hope Cemetery in 2009. It has since been converted into a macabre video-viewing room with an LCD TV, a selection of 60 classic horror films, antique furnishings in a gated sitting area, and a custom-built pine coffin large enough for two. Package deals include a “last meal” option as well as a tour of Stephen King’s home in nearby Bangor.
“Nowhere else in the world can you rent an actual crypt for an evening,” said owner Andrew Knight. “There is a market for unique experiences. Watching a scary movie and drinking a glass of wine in a coffin inside an authentic crypt is one-of-a-kind,” he said. “It might be too creepy to attract actual customers, but if anyone uses it, it will be the adventurers and novelty-seekers.” When asked if he would spend an evening in the crypt, he said, “Hell no.”
The crypt room, which does not have a bathroom and is available for entertainment value only, must be paired with accommodations at the Inn at the Agora. “Your room is at the inn,” said Innkeeper Jan Barrett, “but then we give you the key to the crypt. What you do in there is your business but you must vacate the crypt by 2am.”
The opportunity to be the first living person or couple to spend an evening in the crypt after Father Wallace is currently available on eBay.com. Reservations are being accepted for stays beginning August 1.
