urnahautaus

Urnahautaus refers to the cremation of a deceased person and the keeping or interment of the resulting ashes in an urn. It is a common form of disposition in Finland and widely used in many Western countries.

Typically, after death a funeral home arranges transport to a licensed crematorium. A death certificate is issued, and the deceased is identified before cremation. The cremation takes place in a cremator at high temperature, reducing the body to ashes. The ashes are collected in a sealed container and placed in an urn chosen by relatives. The urn may be buried in a grave, placed in a columbarium, kept by family, or, in some jurisdictions, scattered in designated areas or at sea.

Cremation is regulated by funeral and health laws. Many religious groups permit cremation, though practices vary. Cultural attitudes toward cremation have shifted over the 20th century, contributing to its widespread adoption.

Urns range from simple wooden or ceramic vessels to metal or biodegradable options. Some families choose eco-friendly considerations.

Cremation has origins in ancient cultures; modern cremation gained popularity in Europe and North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and has since become a mainstream practice in many parts of the world.