Reihengrabs

Reihengrabs, a German term literally translating to "row graves," refers to a specific type of burial practice prevalent in many European cemeteries, particularly in German-speaking countries. This method involves the interment of deceased individuals in a linear arrangement, side-by-side, forming distinct rows. Unlike a family grave plot or a solitary burial, Reihengrabs are typically individual plots, leased for a predetermined period. Upon the expiration of this lease, the remains are usually exhumed and reburied in a common grave or cremated, freeing up the space for new interments.

The primary characteristic of a Reihengrab is its uniformity. These graves are often of a standard size and shape, with consistent spacing between them. Decoration is usually limited, adhering to cemetery regulations that might restrict elaborate monuments or extensive landscaping. This standardization contributes to a more orderly and economical management of cemetery grounds. The concept of Reihengrabs is rooted in a desire for fairness and efficient land use within urbanizing populations. It reflects a communal approach to death and remembrance, where individual grief is acknowledged within a structured, public space. The practice ensures that a consistent number of burial sites are available, catering to the ongoing needs of a community without requiring vast, perpetually maintained individual plots.