Above Ground Grave Guide to Crypts and Mausoleums

Above ground graves offer families an alternative way to lay their loved ones to rest, utilizing mausoleums, crypts, or burial walls instead of traditional burial. This type of burial keeps remains above the earth’s surface, offering a unique and dignified way to honor a special person.

For many, above ground graves mean a bit more protection from the elements and, honestly, easier maintenance in the long run.

You might wonder if this is the right choice for your family. I’ve watched families find genuine comfort in selecting a space that feels peaceful and personal, and I help people navigate these challenging decisions all the time.

Understanding Above Ground Graves

Choosing an above-ground structure opens up options beyond in-ground burial. You’ll find structures for both casketed remains and cremated ashes, each with its own perks and meaning.

What Sets Above Ground Burial Apart

Above-ground burial refers to placing remains in a structure above the soil, rather than directly in the earth. People often pick this method for its practicality and flexibility.

Mausoleums and crypts offer more protection from weather, less hassle with upkeep, and, in some cases, a quieter spot for visits. When you choose an elevated burial spot, you skip the headaches of soggy ground or high water tables—pretty handy in places that flood a lot.

Some tombs and crypts fit couples or even whole families. I’ve seen families feel relief knowing their loved ones rest in a dignified, accessible place for regular visits.

Types of Above Ground Structures

The main above-ground structures are mausoleums, above-ground crypts, lawn crypts, columbarium niches, and private family tombs. Each one fits a different need.

With numerous options, you can tailor things to your family’s preferences and budget.

History and Cultural Significance

Above-ground tombs date back to ancient times—think of the famous ancient Egyptian pyramids or the renowned cemeteries in New Orleans. In some places, folks turned to above-ground burial because the ground just wasn’t suitable for digging.

Cultures embrace these methods for spiritual, religious, or practical reasons. For instance, Mediterranean countries use above-ground crypts thanks to both tradition and necessity.

My family’s been in funeral planning for generations, and I’ve seen how above-ground options can respect tradition while meeting families’ wishes. That background really drives my commitment to helping you make the right choice for your loved one.

Selecting the Right Above Ground Grave

Choosing an above ground grave means figuring out what works best for your family. Privacy, tradition, location, and the number of loved ones you want to keep together are all important considerations here.

Family Mausoleums and Private Choices

A family mausoleum gives you privacy and the chance to keep relatives together through generations. You can customize these—from simple granite buildings to something more elaborate, even inspired by places like the Taj Mahal if you’re feeling ambitious.

With a private mausoleum, you can choose the materials, personalize the space, and create a truly intimate resting place. In New Orleans, high water tables and French influences have made above ground graves a fixture.

Growing up, I learned that a mausoleum isn’t just a building—it’s part of a family’s story. I’ve always wanted to help families build affordable, dignified spaces that future generations can visit and remember.

Public and Community Mausoleums

Public or community mausoleums bring together multiple families or individuals in a single large building. Cemeteries across the U.S. offer these as a more affordable and convenient alternative to private mausoleums.

You basically purchase a crypt or niche inside the shared structure, which can hold one or more caskets or urns. The cemetery maintains these buildings, so your family doesn’t have to worry about upkeep.

Cities like St. Louis have some beautiful, historic public mausoleums that show how communities come together to honor loved ones. This route makes sense for folks who want security and tradition without the price tag of a private space.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Think about location, cost, materials, and your local environment when picking an above ground grave. Above ground burial is especially common in places with high sea levels, like New Orleans, where digging deep just isn’t practical. The type of stone—granite’s a favorite—affects how things look and how long they last.

Family traditions matter, too. Is it important to keep generations together? How large a mausoleum do you need, and how much customization aligns with your values and budget?

Weigh maintenance, security, and how easy it’ll be for future generations to visit. Honestly, I think it’s definitely worth sitting down with your family to discuss both the emotional and practical aspects before making a decision.

Conclusion

Choosing the best burial option comes down to what feels right for your loved ones and your legacy. 

Instead of the traditional in-ground burial, you might be drawn to the rich French roots of above-ground traditions in places like St Louis, or prefer a serene environment that offers protection against rising sea level concerns. 

With so many numerous choices available, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect option. From columbarium niches for cremated remains to elegant above-ground structures, such as family mausoleums, each one offers a meaningful final resting place for the remains of an individual. 

I’ve used my years of experience to help many family members decide between a burial plot, an above-ground option, or cremation services—and I’ve seen firsthand how much peace it brings when every detail reflects both love and practicality. 

Honoring long-held traditions or exploring newer alternatives, the type of material, setting, and style you choose will shape a legacy that lasts.