Crematorium
A crematorium is a facility specifically designed and equipped for cremation. The popularity of cremation has grown steadily in Finland, and today over half of all burials involve cremation. This has increased the importance of crematoria as part of burial services.
Cremation Process
Cremation is carried out at the crematorium at temperatures of 800–1,000 degrees Celsius. The deceased is always cremated in a casket, and the process takes approximately 1–2 hours. Each person is cremated individually — only one body is in the furnace at any time. After cremation, the bone ash is cooled, metallic implants are removed, and the ash is ground to a uniform consistency. The ashes are then placed in an urn or temporary container.
Before cremation, a valid burial permit must be delivered to the crematorium. Under the Burial Act, cremation must be performed within one month of death.
Crematoria in Finland
Finland has approximately 20 crematoria across the country. The largest are located in Helsinki (Hietaniemi crematorium), Tampere, Turku, and Oulu. Crematoria are primarily maintained by Evangelical Lutheran parishes and parish unions. Cremation can be performed at any crematorium regardless of the deceased's place of residence.
Costs
The crematorium cremation fee is typically 200–500 euros. Parish members usually receive a more affordable price. In addition to the cremation fee, there are transportation costs to the crematorium and the cost of the urn. Overall, cremation is significantly more affordable than casket burial.
Legislation and Permits
Under Section 25 of the Burial Act, establishing a crematorium requires a permit from the Regional State Administrative Agency (AVI). The crematorium must meet environmental and safety requirements. Operations are supervised by the Regional State Administrative Agencies.
Placing the Ashes
After cremation, the family may place the ashes in an urn grave, a memorial grove, or scatter them in nature with the landowner's permission. Ashes must be placed in their final resting place within one year of cremation. If the ashes are not collected, the crematorium takes care of the placement.
Read more about crematorium operations and cremation in our knowledge bank articles.
Frequently asked questions
How many crematoria are there in Finland?
Finland has approximately 20 crematoria. The largest are located in Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, and Oulu. Crematoria are primarily maintained by parishes and parish unions.
How much does cremation cost at a crematorium?
The cremation fee is typically 200–500 euros depending on the crematorium and location. Parish members may receive a lower price. The fee does not include the urn or transportation costs.
How long does cremation take?
The cremation process takes approximately 1–2 hours. Cremation is performed at temperatures of 800–1,000 degrees Celsius. Each person is cremated individually, meaning only one body in a casket is in the furnace at a time.
Related terms
A burial method where the deceased is cremated in a crematorium furnace. Ashes are placed in an urn grave, memorial grove, or scattered.
A post-cremation burial method where the urn containing ashes is placed in a grave or columbarium niche.
A designated area in a cemetery where ashes are placed anonymously or with a name plaque. Maintenance is the responsibility of the parish.
A vessel into which the cremation remains of the deceased are placed after cremation, for burial, storage or scattering of ashes.
Read also
How does a crematorium work in Finland? Read about the cremation process, crematorium locations, legislation, and practices. A comprehensive guide for families.
Cremation in Finland: the process, ash placement options, legislation, and costs. A comprehensive guide to cremation and urn burial.
Comprehensive cremation FAQ for Finland: process, costs, ash placement, legislation, urns, timelines, and practical guidance. All your cremation questions answered.