In many countries, gravesites are considered eternal resting places. However, in Germany, gravesites are considered temporary. Descendants of the deceased must renew or extend their burial rights in order to maintain them, otherwise the area will be designated for new burial. In genealogical research, cemeteries are often an important source of information about the lives of one's ancestors. Headstones can also provide information about relatives of the deceased, their occupation, or other unique features that can bring us closer to our ancestors.
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Temporary use of graves
In Germany, a unique tradition has developed in which the right to use a grave is purchased for a limited period of time. Cemetery plots are not considered perpetual burial sites, and are only leased or rented. This practice has its roots in the historical challenge of lack of space. The duration of this right, known as a "period of repose," is determined by local government. These regulations are intended to ensure a respectful time period for the bereaved to mourn.
The duration of the resting periods varies depending on:
- the type of grave
- cemetery regulations
- occupancy rate
- soil conditions
The decomposition period is one of the decisive factors. In acidic soils, decomposition progresses more quickly, while clay-like soils tend to slow decomposition. Soil properties therefore play an important role. Minimum resting periods are specified in the burial and cemetery laws of individual German states. For example, Baden-Württemberg, Brandenburg, and Hesse dictate a resting period of 15 years, while Berlin, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lower Saxony, and Saxony suggest a time frame of 20 years. It is important to note that these terms may vary from cemetery to cemetery. However, in general:
- earthen graves usually last 20-30 years, with shorter terms for children lasting 10-20 years
- urn graves have a term of 10-25 years
- burial vaults or where the soil composition is clay-like, much longer periods usually apply
- family graves, where several family members may be buried together, the period begins with the burial of the last descendant
Extensions of grave use rights by descendants, after the first resting period, are possible for some types of burials and are usually subject to a fee. In the case of "elective graves" in particular, indefinite extensions are often possible.
Beyond the resting period
If the right to a gravesite is not renewed, the grave will be reclaimed and rededicated. The relatives are responsible for clearing the grave, including the removal of headstones and grave decorations. The cemetery or its caretakers will level the grave. If necessary, the area will be assigned for a new burial. Remains may be interred under the new grave or in designated areas of the cemetery. Urns are generally interred in anonymous urn plots after the expiration of the resting period. The exact modalities are specified in the cemetery laws of the individual federal states.
Thus, the probability of locating ancestral graves depends largely on factors such as burial time, type, and location. As a rule, however, it is difficult to locate specific gravesites or resting places. In most cases, it is not possible to find a grave. Therefore, genealogical research often relies on projects such as the "Gravestone Photographic Project", which documents gravestones.[1]
Compulsory cemetery burial
Germany has a requirement that prohibits the storage of urns in households and generally restricts the scattering of ashes to cemeteries. Although this practice is controversial, Bremen has partially relaxed these regulations and allows the scattering of ashes in certain areas.
Ownership of gravestones
In contrast, gravestones belong to the relatives of the deceased. Once the grave is cleared, the headstone becomes the property of the family and can be managed accordingly.
Historical cemeteries, graves, and gravestones
German cemeteries are places of remembrance and history that are well worth visiting. In addition to existing historic cemeteries, current cemeteries also have an interest in preserving certain graves, or at least the gravestones, in the long term.
Particularly old or historically valuable gravestones or grave designs that positively shape the image of the cemetery are likely to be preserved, as well as famous or historically important personalities. Therefore, despite the comparatively short resting periods, older gravestones, independent of the original graves, can certainly be found in cemeteries. Special provisions also apply to graves of victims of war and tyranny.
Jewish cemeteries in Germany are also set aside in perpetuity. However, they were often desecrated and destroyed during the National Socialist era. Especially in Jewish research, gravestones are a particularly interesting source, since quite a bit of source material on Jewish genealogy was destroyed during the Third Reich. Therefore, the gravestone inscriptions in Jewish cemeteries can provide indispensable clues. A visit to the preserved Jewish cemeteries is usually only possible by appointment.
Even if the graves no longer exist and some gravestones contain only a little information, a visit to the cemetery office may be worthwhile. In addition to detailed personal data of the deceased and formerly interred persons, details of the contact persons of these graves may be available. Contact persons are usually close relatives or friends of the deceased. Especially when searching for living relatives, they can be especially valuable contacts.
See also
Explore more about Cemeteries and graves in Germany
- Worldwide Jewish Burial Registry from JewishGenat MyHeritage
- JewishGen Memorial Plaques Database at MyHeritage
- Germany Deaths and Burials, 1582-1958 at MyHeritage