inurnare

Inurnare is the Latin term for the ancient Roman practice of interring or burying people in an urn, typically made of clay, stone, or metal. In Roman times, cremation was the primary method of disposing of the dead, where the deceased's body was burned, and the remains were collected and placed in an urn.

The practice of inurnare evolved over time, particularly during the Roman Republic and early Empire periods. When cremation was no longer possible, inurnare became a preferred option for the burial of the dead. In many cases, inurnae were positioned in mausolea or family burial plots, often with elaborate funerary monuments.

Inurnae were typically made from materials such as terra sigillata, glass, or bronze, which were often ornate and decorated with frescoes or other forms of artistic expression. In some cases, inurnae were designed to look like miniature Roman buildings, incorporating architectural elements such as columns and arches.

The contents of inurnae often included the ashes of the deceased, as well as personal belongings, coins, and letters, which provided valuable insights into the social status and daily life of ancient Roman individuals. Archaeological excavations have uncovered numerous inurnae from Roman Rome, some of which now reside in museums, providing researchers with a unique window into the lives and practices of the ancient Roman civilization.

The practice of inurnare lessened over time, as Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire, which discouraged the burning of bodies as an unacceptable deviation of Christian teaching. Although the use of inurnae declined, the invaluable information they contain continues to provide historians and archaeologists with a closer look at Roman society and burial practices.