grafplek

Grafplek, literally “grave place” in Dutch, refers to a designated burial site on a cemetery where a deceased person is interred or where cremated remains are laid to rest. A grafplek can be a single grave, a family grave with space for multiple interments, or an urn grave designed for cremains. In many cemeteries, both municipal and private, grafplekken are laid out in plots or sections and often include a foundation for a headstone or monument.

Ownership and rights: The right to use a grafplek is usually governed by a grafrecht (grave right), granted by the cemetery administrator. The right is typically time-limited (commonly 10–30 years) and renewable; some cemeteries offer eeuwigdurende grafrechten (perpetual rights) though the land itself remains the property of the cemetery operator or owner. Fees cover maintenance and grave upkeep.

Maintenance and use: The cemetery is responsible for general upkeep and safety. Families or grafrecht-houders may place and maintain headstones, plaques, and vases in accordance with cemetery regulations. Rules govern monuments, plantings, and reminders, as well as arrangements for the upkeep of surrounding grounds.

Process: After death, the family selects a grafplek based on space and budget and signs the grafrechten agreement. The interment can be in a coffin (begraving) or in urn (cremation). Inscription on the monument is arranged with the cemetery, following applicable guidelines.

See also: cemetery, grave, cremation, gravestone, grafrecht.