Cremation history and the development of urns

Cremation dates back thousands of years, with evidence reaching as far as the early Stone Age around 3,000 BC. Throughout history, the practice has sparked discussion and division, particularly among different cultures and religions. Some faiths opposed cremation due to beliefs centred on preserving the physical body after death. While attitudes have evolved over time and many religions have since accepted cremation, some still choose not to practise it.

The earliest evidence of cremation has been discovered in Europe, where the practice was especially common towards the end of the Stone Age. It was particularly prevalent in western Russia and neighbouring Slavic regions, where numerous artefacts have been uncovered, including early pottery cremation urns.

During the Bronze Age, cremation spread across Eastern Europe and into regions such as Britain, Spain, Portugal, and Northern Europe. By the Mycenaean Age (around 1,000 BC), cremation had become customary in Greece. It was widely accepted as the most hygienic form of burial—a belief that still influences modern practices today.

The Romans adopted cremation around 600 BC, elevating it into a respected and elaborate ritual. Ashes were stored in finely crafted urns, often decorated with intricate designs, and placed within columbaria, specially built structures for housing cremated remains.

With the rise of Christianity, cremation fell out of favour, replaced by traditional earth burials. For more than 1,500 years, cremation was rarely practised in Christian Europe, typically reserved for exceptional circumstances such as plagues or times of war.

Cremation experienced a resurgence in the 1870s, largely due to renewed awareness of its hygienic benefits. Although acceptance was gradual at first, changing attitudes led to a significant increase in its use. Today, cremation is the most common form of burial in the UK, widely practised across Europe and increasingly popular in the United States.

As cremation has grown in popularity, so too has the demand for suitable and meaningful urns. Since the time of the Greeks and Romans, families have chosen decorative vessels to store the ashes of loved ones. This tradition continues today, alongside the option of scattering remains. Modern urns now come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and materials, including stone, wood, and metal.

We offer a beautiful selection of child and adult cremation urns for families across the UK. Each urn is carefully sourced for quality and craftsmanship, helping you choose a fitting and respectful tribute to your loved one. All of our urns are available to view and purchase online, allowing you to browse and order at your convenience.