Crypt

A crypt refers to an above or underground chamber or vault used for the Interment of deceased people or their cremated Remains.

They are often found in Cemeteries, Mausoleums, churches, or other Burial sites and their design can vary widely, from simple and functional to ornate and decorative, depending on the burial site and the Surviving Family's preferences.

Crypts are often associated with permanent memorials and provide a place for family members and loved ones to pay their respects and remember those who have passed away.

Common types of crypts include:

Mausoleum Crypt: Mausoleum crypts are small, above-ground chambers or compartments designed to hold a Casket or Urn containing the deceased's remains. They are typically located within a larger mausoleum structure, which can be a freestanding building or a section of a cemetery building. Mausoleum crypts are often used for above-ground entombment and can vary in size and design.

Crypt Burial: In some cases, especially in historic cemeteries and churchyards, crypts are underground chambers used for burial. A crypt burial involves placing the casket within an underground crypt, providing a form of below-ground interment.

Family Crypt: A family crypt is a burial space or chamber that is reserved for multiple deceased family members. It may contain multiple compartments or shelves for individual caskets or urns. Family crypts are often used by families who wish to be interred together.

Public Crypt: Some cemeteries and mausoleums have public crypts available for individuals or families to purchase. These crypts are typically used for interment, and they may have individual or shared compartments.

Columbarium Crypt: While not typically referred to as "crypts," Columbarium are similar in function. A columbarium is a structure or wall with small compartments, known as Niches, designed to hold urns containing cremated remains. Each niche can be considered a type of crypt for cremated remains.