Perhaps you’ve pondered about final resting places devoid of religious symbols. Here at Lyra Ateistisk Gravplads, such a space exists. It offers a non-religious burial option right here in Copenhagen.
Lyra Ateistisk Gravplads is part of Bispebjerg Kirkegård. It opened this section for non-religious burials. The Copenhagen Municipality politically sanctioned it. However, the Center for Kirkegårde in Copenhagen reports that no one has used it yet.
All sections in Copenhagen’s municipal cemeteries are named after national or religious groups. Boris Koppel from the Center for Kirkegårde explains this tradition. To follow it, the section at Vestre Kirkegård was named Vega. This section at Bispebjerg Kirkegård became Lyra. Vega is a star in the Lyra constellation. Thus, it signals something universal that everyone can relate to.
Lyra Ateistisk Gravplads is open to all citizens. The sign at this section reads “Ateistisk begravelsesplads”. This translates to Atheist Burial Site. This was the most straightforward term during planning. It broadly describes the department’s purpose.
Both Lyra and Vega are consecrated ground. The Church of Denmark blessed them when they became burial sites. This is common for all municipal cemeteries in Denmark.
Tommy Petersen is the local chairman for the Atheist Society in Copenhagen. He views the consecration as a minor detail. It is part of the Church of Denmark’s narrative. This narrative is unavoidable when getting buried. He would have preferred a neutral municipal area. It should not be within a religious framework. All people could have their own burial regardless of religion.
Currently, there are three burial sections in Denmark for non-believers. Two are in Copenhagen and one is in Aarhus. These sections are part of municipal cemeteries. The Ministry of Church Affairs regulates the municipal burial system. The municipal council or Copenhagen City Council is responsible for daily operations.
Since the first symbol-neutral cemetery opened in Aarhus in 2011, demand has been limited. Only five people have been buried in the two atheist cemeteries in Copenhagen. Meanwhile, 25 people have been buried in Aarhus. This is despite the perceived urgent need for such options.
To get a burial plot in Lyra Ateistisk Gravplads, one must agree not to put up religious symbols on the grave. Christian Thostrup Møller-Jensen is chairman for the Atheist Society. He believes these graveyards have value simply by existing even unused. The Atheist Society believes that the lack of use is due to a lack of awareness. They are trying to spread awareness through a network of funeral directors.
Lyra Ateistisk Gravplads represents a significant step. It acknowledges diverse beliefs about end-of-life arrangements. Although little used, it stands as a testament to inclusivity within Copenhagen’s cemetery system.