The tradition of above-ground entombment in a mausoleum has existed for thousands of years.
In much of the modern world, mausoleums are popular structures because they provide people with a dignified place to commemorate their deceased loved ones.
In Western Australia alone, there are five beautifully designed public mausoleums that provide the Western Australian community access to a distinguished form of final rest.
Mausoleums, which are free-standing buildings that are constructed to house one or more burial chambers, date as far back as the Roman Empire, perhaps even further.
The word mausoleum comes from ’The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus’, which is where the grave of King Mausolus, the Persian Satrap of Caria, lies. This architectural wonder is so grand; it was once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Early versions of mausoleums can be found in ancient ruins cross Rome, and of course, the pyramids in Egypt.
However, this form of burial didn’t gain widespread popularity until the early modern and modern periods, when they first rose to popularity in Europe and its colonies.
Historically, mausoleums were large and impressive structures that were built for a deceased leader or a person of extreme importance. Nowadays, many mausoleums are still impressive structures, but they’re more accessible to the general public. They’ve also become the most common place of rest for people who choose to be cremated.
A crypt in each of these mausoleums can be purchased at the time of bereavement or prior to bereavement, and can then be adorned with plaques and inscriptions and extra decorative elements.
Some mausoleums do have restrictions on the style of lettering, attachment of photos, crucifixes, and lamps, but we are familiar with all of these regulations and can guide you through the options of what you can and can’t do.
To add a personal touch to your loved one’s crypt, contact G.C.Smith & Co about our services today.