Szarkofágok

Szarkofágok are stone coffins, typically rectangular in shape, used for burial. The word itself originates from Greek, meaning "flesh-eater," a reference to the material used in some ancient sarcophagi, believed to hasten decomposition. While originally made of limestone, the term has broadened to include coffins made from various stone materials like granite, marble, and even metal.

Throughout history, szarkofágok have been employed by diverse cultures, from ancient Egyptians and Romans to medieval European royalty and nobility. Their construction often involved elaborate carvings, inscriptions, and depictions of the deceased, religious scenes, or mythological narratives, serving as both a final resting place and a monument. The size and ornamentation of a szarkofág could signify the status and wealth of the individual interred within.

In ancient Egypt, sarcophagi were an integral part of the mummification process, designed to protect the body and ensure a safe passage to the afterlife. Roman sarcophagi were often decorated with portraits of the deceased and scenes from their lives or popular mythology. During the Middle Ages, elaborate effigies were frequently placed atop stone szarkofágok in churches and cathedrals. Today, while less common for everyday burials, szarkofágok are still sometimes used for prominent figures or as elaborate burial monuments.