Memmingen's cemeteries: now part of the intangible cultural heritage!

Memmingen's cemeteries: now part of the intangible cultural heritage!

The cemeteries in Memmingen recently received an award and have now become part of the intangible cultural heritage of “cemetery culture”. This event marks a valuable step towards recognizing the cultural and social importance that cemeteries play in our society. There is a new sign at the main entrance to the forest cemetery that draws attention to the relevance of this culture. It is the beginning of a series of signs that will be put up at other district cemeteries in the coming months to raise people's awareness of the issue. The initiative aims to strengthen the culture of remembrance and highlight the role of cemeteries as social and ecological spaces that go far beyond their pure purpose, says Mayor Jan Rothenbacher, who emphasizes the social function of these places.

Cemetery culture in Germany encompasses a variety of forms of expression, ranging from individual mourning to the design of gravesites and the use of cemeteries as social meeting places. According to the information from UNESCO The central elements include rituals for dealing with grief and the loving care of the graves in the form of “gardens of remembrance”. An exciting dynamic can also be seen in the increasing number of urn burials, which further influences the appearance and lived cemetery culture.

Cemetery culture as part of society's self-image

Cemetery culture has established itself over centuries as a central framework for dealing with the deceased. There is a wealth of traditions and rituals that help overcome grief and promote dignified remembrance. In Germany, cemeteries are viewed not only as quiet places of farewell, but also as living expressions of a deep-rooted tradition and part of national identity kulturerbe-friedhof.de explained.

In this context, the diversity of cemeteries, which includes not only Christian but also Jewish and Muslim gravesites, plays an important role. This diverse mix promotes integration and respect across cultural and religious differences. In addition, as historical monuments, cemeteries are not only places of remembrance, but also habitats for plants and animals that contribute to the ecological diversity of our cities.

A network for cemetery culture

With its inclusion in the nationwide network that honors the social role of cemeteries, Memmingen is becoming part of a larger movement. The “Recognize Cemeteries” campaign, which was recommended by the German Commission for UNESCO, is intended to help bring public awareness back to the appreciation for these important places of remembrance. Maintaining cemetery culture is not only responsible, but also actively contributes to monument protection by preserving the knowledge and skills that have developed over centuries.

At a time when alternative burials outside traditional cemeteries are increasing, it is even more important to emphasize the importance of cemeteries as places of remembrance and social interaction. Only together can we preserve these cultural treasures and keep the culture of remembrance alive.