Columbarium or Mausoleum

Columbarium or Mausoleum: Choosing Location for a Loved One

There are all sorts of options when it comes to storing the ashes of a loved one. While many choose to scatter the ashes, some prefer to have them interred or placed in a cemetery. Cemeteries are more than happy to accommodate the wishes of the family and they offer two great options: columbarium and mausoleum spaces. But which one is the right one for your loved one’s remains?

Columbarium

A columbarium is a structure in a cemetery where the urns of loved ones are placed, each in an individual niche. This allows the family to visit and honor the loved one with flowers and more. For lots of people, it’s a good option, and cemeteries even allow for private options. This means that the plaques stating the names of the deceased might not be accessible to everyone. For those who want to have privacy when visiting a loved one, this is a great choice. They tend to be less expensive than other spots in cemeteries, so it can be a great option for people searching for more affordable spaces for a loved one. A funeral home in Delmar, NY will always be more than happy to help a family member choose the appropriate columbarium in the area.

Mausoleum

Mausoleums are also above ground burial spots, but they typically have caskets, not urns. The caskets are placed in crypts, which can be private or shared with other members of the same family. Some mausoleums are entirely for one family and they can be very ornate. Cost can be a concern when deciding on a mausoleum. The more private it is, the more it will cost, so it is important to keep that in mind. Some mausoleums have the names of those buried within displayed on the front, while others do not, allowing for more privacy. They can be incredibly elaborate, with carvings and all manner of symbols. It can be a truly wonderful way to honor a loved one.

Which to Choose

One very simple way of deciding on whether a columbarium or a mausoleum is the right choice is to consider if a loved one’s remains will be in urns or in caskets. Although urns can be stored in mausoleums, it is usually not the choice most people make. Cost is also something to keep in mind. Columbarium spots are more affordable than buying a place in a mausoleum. Of course, if a loved one wants to be buried along with their family in their mausoleum, this should be respected.

These are two options to consider when deciding where a loved one should be interred. Columbarium and mausoleum spots are both great options that will honor the deceased and while allowing their loved ones to visit them whenever they prefer. Keep in mind cost and space constraints when choosing the right option. For more information contact McVeigh Funeral Home, located at 208 North Allen St, Albany, NY 12206. Reach them at (518) 489-0188 for details.