A Brief History of Cremation Services

How has cremation, one of the oldest rituals, changed across different cultures and continents over the centuries? Let’s take a look at its long history to see how it went from ancient traditions to a widely accepted practice today as the practice cremation is becoming more and more popular. We’ll trace its roots, follow its ups and downs, and see how it shaped the way we honor loved ones in modern funerals in Sydney.

Ancient Beginnings

Cremation has been around since at least 3000 BCE, with ancient societies in Europe and the Near East practicing it. Archaeological findings from the Stone Age show that early humans in these regions cremated their dead, often placing the ashes in clay or stone urns. Cremation was likely linked to spiritual beliefs, such as releasing the soul from the body.

In ancient Greece, cremation became the go-to method for body disposal, especially during the Mycenaean era (1600-1100 BCE). The Greeks believed it purified the soul, helping it ascend to the afterlife faster. The practice was also used to honor fallen soldiers, as seen in Homer’s Iliad, where Patroclus’ cremation is vividly described. Ashes were often placed in elaborate urns, which were either buried or kept in family tombs.

In ancient Rome, cremation was common, just like in Greece. The Romans saw it as a way to honor the dead and ensure the soul’s journey to the afterlife. During the Roman Republic and early Empire (509 BCE – 395 CE), elaborate cremation ceremonies were held, especially by wealthy families. Ashes were placed in urns and stored in columbaria—structures with niches for urns. However, burial became more popular in the later Roman Empire as religious and cultural views shifted.

Decline During the Spread of Christianity

As Christianity spread through the Roman Empire, cremation declined. Early Christians believed in bodily resurrection, so burial became more common. They considered the body sacred and believed it should be preserved for resurrection. Christian doctrine’s growing influence across Europe led to a widespread abandonment of cremation during the early Middle Ages.

The Church discouraged cremation, associating it with pagan rituals. As a result, burial became the dominant practice in Europe and most of the Christian world. Cremation was rare and often used as punishment for heretics or criminals, whose bodies were burned to prevent resurrection.

The Modern Revival of Cremation

Cremation saw a resurgence in the late 19th century due to practical concerns and changing attitudes toward death. Overcrowded cemeteries in growing cities led to health concerns, prompting medical professionals and reformers to advocate for cremation as a more sanitary alternative.

Sir Henry Thompson, a British surgeon, played a key role in this revival. In 1874, he published a pamphlet titled Cremation: The Treatment of the Body After Death, arguing that cremation was more respectful and hygienic than burial. His efforts led to the formation of the Cremation Society of Great Britain and helped change public perceptions.

The first modern crematorium was built in Milan, Italy, in 1876, followed by others in Germany and the UK. The United States’ first crematorium was established the same year in Washington, Pennsylvania. While religious resistance remained, cremation slowly gained acceptance.