History of cremation: urns through the ages

​Cremation has been performed throughout human history, and the practice’s popularity has waxed and waned over time. Within the past century, cremation has become more widely accepted, and decorative urns are now regarded as beautiful, timeless keepsakes.

Neolithic Period 
The earliest archaeological evidence suggests that cremation was practiced in the Stone Age (circa 3000 BC) in Europe and Japan, where simple pottery cremation urns have been discovered. Because these urns were fashioned using primitive tools, they weren’t very ornate. 

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Bronze Age 
Cremation practices became widespread in North America, Britain, Hungary, Italy, Spain and Portugal between 2500 - 1000 BC. During this time, cemeteries specifically devoted to housing cremated remains were established.  

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Mycenaean Age
In war-torn Ancient Greece, cremation became the preferred method of disposing soldiers' bodies because it was regarded as hygienic. During this era, urns evolved to become more intricate and were a quintessential component of elaborate burial ceremonies. ​

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Roman Empire 
Between 27 AD and 395 AD, the practice of cremation became customary among Romans, particularly those in the upper class. Cremated remains were stored in highly decorated urns and housed in large, communal vaults. ​

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Age of Constantine the Great
Early Christians considered cremation to be a pagan tradition, so by 400 AD, the practice was discouraged and earth burial became customary. For the next century and a half, this sentiment was upheld by a majority of the population. ​

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Present Day
By the early 1900s, modern cremation came to rise, specifically in North America. The Cremation Association of North America was established in 1915, and by the turn of the century, nearly 25% of all deaths resulted in cremation. Today, 50.2% of individuals opt for cremation for themselves or their loved ones.

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Cremation has evolved so much so that there are currently a plethora of options to store cremated remains, including our "Blooming Bio-Urns," which are designed to grow into twelve different types of wildflowers. 

Additionally, we offer a wide selection of decorative urns that make beautiful keepsakes.  Visit our online catalog to learn about our reasonably priced urn options or call us anytime at (850) 466-5440.