The history of cremations

The practice of cremation has evolved over thousands of years and has been shaped by a variety of influences, including religious beliefs, social customs, and health considerations. Some of the earliest evidence of cremation was discovered near Mungo Lake in Australia in 1969. The remains, known as the Mungo Lady, were carbon dated to between 24,700 and 19,030 years ago, demonstrating that even early societies used cremation as part of their burial rituals.

Further archaeological evidence shows that cremation was a common form of burial in Northern Europe and the Near East around 3,000 BC. During the Bronze Age, the practice spread more widely, particularly among the Celts in Great Britain and the Iberian Peninsula. It was also during this time that the first cemeteries specifically designed for cremations were established, notably in Hungary and Northern Italy.

In the Roman era (600 BC to 600 AD), cremation was widely practised, especially for honoured members of society. However, with the rise of early Christianity and Judaism, cremation fell out of favour, as traditional burial was strongly preferred. As a result, cremation remained relatively uncommon for many centuries and only began to re-emerge during the Victorian era.

In Victorian England, cremation gained renewed attention primarily for sanitary reasons. Queen Victoria’s personal physician was among those who advocated for cremation, believing it could help reduce the spread of disease. England’s first crematorium was built in 1878, just two years after the first crematorium opened in the United States.

Today, cremation is practised worldwide and is the most common form of burial in the UK. Attitudes towards cremation have softened significantly over time, and in the 1960s the Catholic Church lifted its ban, acknowledging cremation as an acceptable practice. Cremation is now widely recognised as a respectful and dignified funeral option, chosen by people of all faiths, religions, and backgrounds.

At Urns With Love, we offer a carefully curated selection of high-quality cremation urns, designed to help families honour and preserve the memory of their loved ones. Our urns are crafted from the finest materials and created exclusively for us, ensuring both beauty and durability. Our team is always available to support you, offering guidance and care as you choose the perfect urn during a difficult time.