As so many different types of tombs exist in cemeteries, here at Stelae, we want to help you choose the most suitable one. Read on to discover their characteristics and important aspects to consider when deciding which option to opt for.
What is a tomb or burial site?
The RAE dictionary defines a tomb as ‘the place where a corpse is buried’. From a funerary point of view, the tomb is a burial unit excavated in the earth, generally in the ground.
This type of grave can house one or more deceased people depending on its size.
Different types of tombs
Although it is common to think of a tomb as a grave that is dug in the ground, there are other types of burial methods that do not necessarily have this characteristic.
The following is a general explanation of the different types of tombs that can be found in cemeteries:
Wall or niche grave
The wall or niche grave is a type of individual tomb, designed to house the coffin or urn containing the ashes of a loved one.
It is a cavity in a wall that is integrated into a building in superimposed rows above ground level, the dimensions of which are governed by the funeral regulations in force.
Ossuary
Ossuaries are also cavities in a wall in which the remains of a deceased person are placed. Their dimensions are smaller than those of a niche because these types of tombs only hold a container with the remains or ashes of the deceased.
Columbarium
The columbarium is one of the most common types of tombs in cemeteries today. It consists of a burial unit whose dimensions are adapted to contain urns containing the ashes of the deceased.
These tombs have similar characteristics to niches or ossuaries but are even smaller in size.
Grave in the ground
A grave in the ground is one of the most common types of tombs in the cemetery. It is the most traditional burial space, and is often referred to as a tomb in itself.
The grave consists of a space designed to house a deceased person or their ashes and has a chamber that is built below ground level.
The earth grave is usually located in plots and has a series of characteristics and decorations that are governed by the current funeral regulations of each cemetery.
Pantheon
Pantheons are graves designed to house the remains of several people, generally from the same family.
This type of funerary construction is located in plots that require a reasonable amount of space. This is because this structure is a kind of funerary monument and its interior is divided into different types of tombs which may be niches, columbariums or graves in the ground.
Is it possible to own any of these types of tombs?
Ownership of any of the different types of tombs mentioned in the previous section is a matter for each cemetery to decide since regulations may vary in each autonomous community and province, and also within each municipality or cemetery.
Generally, cemeteries are municipally owned and in most cases a fee must be paid for the concession of these tombs. This means you would have the right to use the site for a certain period of time, which may or may not be extended.
However, the right of ownership is not always an option, except in the case of private cemeteries.
Depending on the chosen burial unit, each cemetery stipulates a maximum number of years of concession which can be renewed, even by the heirs of the deceased.
However, the plot cannot be sold, as it is not the property of the deceased or their relatives.
With regard to the number of years that one has the right to use these types of tombs, the maximum is usually 99 years, although more often than not, it does not exceed 75 years. That said, we are talking about tombs such as graves in the ground. For other types, such as niches, for example, concessions are usually for up to 10 years, which can be extended with the payment of a fee.
When it comes to owning these types of tombs, perhaps most commonly this is found in burials such as pantheons, which can be located on private land. Since they are family-owned, it means that they can continue to be used from generation to generation.
Recommendations for choosing the right type of tomb.
Choosing the right type of tomb is an important decision and can be influenced by cultural, religious, family or financial factors, among others. Therefore, when deciding which type of tomb to choose, we suggest you take into account the following advice:
- Assess the costs associated with each type of tomb which may include land purchase, concession fees or long-term maintenance.
- Consider cultural or religious preferences as some faiths have specific rules about burials or tomb design.
- Choose an accessible location in the cemetery to make it easy for family members to visit.
- Make sure the cemetery offers maintenance and cleaning services.
- Check the cemetery's regulations to understand what the requirements are in each case.
There are other factors that may affect your choice such as the personal preferences of the family or requiring a tomb that is environmentally friendly. Planning ahead always helps when it comes to making the best decision.
