Cemetery
A cemetery is an area designated for the burial of the deceased and the honouring of their memory. In Finland, cemeteries have traditionally been maintained by churches and parishes, and they have both practical and cultural-historical significance. The Burial Act regulates cemetery operations.
Maintenance and Administration
In Finland, cemeteries are primarily maintained by Evangelical Lutheran parishes and parish unions. Under the Burial Act, parishes must maintain public cemeteries and provide grave plots for all area residents regardless of religious affiliation. The Orthodox Church, municipalities, and private communities may also maintain cemeteries.
Types of Grave Plots
Cemeteries have various types of grave plots: casket grave plots, urn grave plots, memorial groves, columbariums, and scattering areas. Casket grave plots are the largest and most expensive, urn plots smaller and more affordable. Burial rights are usually granted for 25–50 years.
Costs
Grave plot prices vary by location. For local residents, a casket grave plot typically costs 200–800 euros and an urn plot 100–400 euros. The price is the same whether or not the deceased belonged to the church, but people from outside the area usually pay more. In addition to the grave plot fee, there are headstone costs and possible maintenance fees. Read more about burial costs in our casket burial article and cremation article.
Frequently asked questions
Who maintains cemeteries in Finland?
In Finland, cemeteries are primarily maintained by Evangelical Lutheran parishes and parish unions. The Orthodox Church, municipalities, and private communities also maintain cemeteries. The Burial Act obliges parishes to maintain public cemeteries.
Can you be buried at a cemetery even if you are not a church member?
Yes. Under the Burial Act, parish cemeteries must bury all residents of the area regardless of religious affiliation. A non-member pays the same grave plot fee as a member (Burial Act, section 6).
How much does a grave plot cost?
Grave plot prices vary by location and cemetery. For local residents, a casket grave plot typically costs 200–800 euros and an urn plot 100–400 euros. The price is the same whether or not the deceased belonged to the church, but people from outside the area usually pay more.
Related terms
The right to use a specific grave plot at a cemetery. The lease period is typically 15–25 years.
A local church community responsible for cemetery maintenance and funeral services in Finland.
Act 457/2003, which regulates burial activities, cemeteries, and cremation in Finland.
A burial method where the deceased is laid to rest in a casket in the ground. The most common form of burial in Finland.
Read also
Casket burial in Finland: process, casket selection, reserving a burial plot, and costs. A comprehensive guide to casket burial practices.
Cremation in Finland: the process, ash placement options, legislation, and costs. A comprehensive guide to cremation and urn burial.
Choosing a cemetery and burial plot: parish cemeteries, municipal cemeteries, prices, and practices. A guide to reserving a burial plot.