Understanding Above-Ground Burials

When planning a burial, many families are familiar with traditional in-ground options. However, above-ground burials are an increasingly popular alternative that offers a dignified and often more accessible way to honor and remember loved ones. At Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery, we understand that choosing the right burial option is a deeply personal decision. This blog will help you understand what above-ground burials are, the options available and why they might be the right choice for you or your loved ones.

What Are Above-Ground Burials?

Above-ground burials, also known as entombments, involve placing the deceased in a structure known as a mausoleum or columbarium rather than being buried in the ground. These structures are designed to house caskets or urns and provide a respectful and lasting memorial.

There are two main types of above-ground burial options:

Mausoleums: These are above-ground buildings that can hold the remains of one or more individuals. Mausoleums can be public, housing the remains of many unrelated individuals or private, designed to serve a single family. They offer a permanent, protected resting place that is often seen as a symbol of prestige and respect.

Columbariums: These are structures specifically designed to house urns containing cremated remains. Like mausoleums, columbariums can be public or private and may be located within a mausoleum or as a stand-alone structure.

Benefits of Above-Ground Burials

Above-ground burials offer several benefits that make them an appealing choice for many families:

Protection and Preservation: One of the primary advantages of above-ground burial is the protection it offers from the elements. Mausoleums and columbariums are designed to provide a secure, climate-controlled environment that can help preserve the integrity of the remains over time.

Accessibility: Mausoleums and columbariums are often more accessible. Family members can visit their loved ones year-round without concern for weather conditions or ground maintenance issues. This accessibility makes it easier to hold memorial services or simply spend time in reflection and remembrance.

Space Efficiency: As cemeteries become more crowded, space is increasingly at a premium. Above-ground burials make efficient use of space, allowing more individuals to be laid to rest in a smaller area.

Aesthetic Appeal: Many families are drawn to the aesthetic appeal of mausoleums and columbariums. These structures are often beautifully designed with high-quality materials and can be customized with inscriptions, plaques and other memorial elements. They provide a dignified and elegant final resting place that reflects the personality and legacy of the deceased.

Environmental Considerations: For those concerned about the environmental impact of traditional burials, above-ground options may be a more sustainable choice. These structures require less land use and can reduce the need for extensive maintenance and landscaping.

Choosing the Right Option

When considering above-ground burial, it’s important to think about your family’s preferences, traditions and budget. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

Personalization: Above-ground structures offer various opportunities for personalization, including customized inscriptions, decorative elements and family plaques. Consider what elements are important to you and how you’d like to memorialize your loved one.

Location: The location of the mausoleum or columbarium within the cemetery can be significant. Some families prefer a spot with a beautiful view, easy access or proximity to other family members.
Above-ground burials provide a respectful, protected and often aesthetically pleasing way to lay your loved ones to rest. At Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery, we offer a range of mausoleum and columbarium options to meet the diverse needs of the families we serve. If you’re considering an above-ground burial, our compassionate staff is here to help you navigate the options and make the best decision for your family. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a visit to our cemetery.