For many families, scattering ashes at sea is far more than a simple act: it’s a deeply meaningful moment, a gesture that unites the memory of a loved one with the immensity and calm of the ocean.

However, it’s not something that can be done without following certain rules. In Spain, it’s regulated and requires specific steps to comply with the law and protect the marine environment. Understanding these rules is essential to ensure the ceremony is special and safe.

When a person is cremated, a common question arises among family members: who owns the ashes of the deceased? While this may seem like a simple matter, the reality is that the law does not always provide a clear answer, and disagreements can arise—especially when there are no written instructions from the deceased.

Collecting the ashes after a cremation is a deeply emotional and symbolic moment for many families. It raises important questions — both practical and personal — especially for those facing this process for the first time: how are ashes collected from a cremation chamber?

Exhuming and transferring remains is a highly sensitive and regulated process in Spain. Although it’s not a frequent occurrence, certain circumstances—legal, administrative, or personal—may require it. In this article, we’ll explain when exhumation is possible, who can request it, the documentation involved, and how the process works.

When is an exhumation and transfer of remains requested?

Exhumation involves removing human remains from their burial site. This can be requested for various reasons:

In our country, funerals usually involve solemnity and quiet reflection, with grief and sadness taking centre stage. However, certain cultures approach death from a completely different angle, viewing it as an opportunity to celebrate life.

Cremation is becoming an increasingly common option following the passing of a loved one, yet not all families know exactly how this process works or what the requirements for cremation are. At Stelae, we help you understand it clearly with this straightforward guide.

What are the requirements for cremation?

When choosing cremation, families need to complete certain steps beforehand to proceed with the process.

When a loved one dies, there are different types of graves for a family to consider. Today at Stelae, we talk to you about these options and their key differences.

What is a grave and what types are there?

Let's start by answering the most basic question about graves: what are they? Graves are the space or place where a deceased person is laid to rest after a funeral. 

Graves are common in almost all cultures, but can vary according to religious beliefs and rituals, among other factors.

There are many different kinds of cemeteries and knowing about them will help you choose the right one for you or your loved one when the time comes. Whether your decision is based on religion, proximity to a location or tradition, understanding more about them will help you make the best possible choice.

There are many different varieties of funerals around the world and they vary from region to region depending on tradition, culture, religion or family customs. At Stelae we will take a look at some of the most interesting and surprising funeral traditions.

Many people in Spain believe that a funeral and a burial are the same thing and use the two terms interchangeably. However, this is not the case and it is important to know the difference between a funeral and burial in order to be able to choose the option that best suits your needs. At Stelae, we will show you how to distinguish between them.

Are funerals and burials the same thing?

As we have said, they are two different concepts. To help understand, here are the definitions of both terms: