Perhaps you’re seeking a final resting place different from a conventional cemetery. The Ruhewald Wittnau offers an alternative. It is located in a specially designated part of the forest. This serene location provides a peaceful final resting place for urn burials.
The Ruhewald Wittnau welcomes people regardless of their home, nationality, or religion. People from the region can choose a dignified burial site here. The forest covers about 10 hectares near Bergschloh. You can find it on the east side of Wittnau.
Johannes Wiesler leads the forest district. His team cares for the Ruhewald Wittnau with dedication. Peter Jeschke, Thomas Littek, and Eckart Lange help him. The municipality of Wittnau’s construction yard staff also helps.
You can park your car in designated parking spaces near the barrier. Another option is near the Schützenhaus. The Ruhewald Wittnau is a short walk from the parking area. It is about 5 minutes on foot without much effort. Just follow the signs.
The Ruhewald Wittnau features a mixed forest. It mainly consists of naturally grown trees. These include firs, Douglas firs, pines, larches, and spruces. You will also see oaks, beeches, lindens, chestnuts and birches. The trees were carefully chosen. They will serve as resting trees for a long time. Burials are also possible at resting stones and rootstocks.
You can apply for rights of use for burial sites in the Ruhewald Wittnau. These rights can be granted before death. For family resting places which allow up to 12 burial plots, the usage period is 60 years. For individual resting places, it is 30 years.
Burials at the Ruhewald Wittnau involve urns only. The urns must be made of biodegradable material. They must decompose without releasing harmful substances. The remains of the deceased gradually become part of the natural cycle again. Scattering ashes is not permitted.
Small celebrations can be held at the farewell area. The forest and its natural surroundings serve as both a burial site and “grave decoration”. Traditional grave care is not allowed. This includes grave decorations like tombstones, plants, flowers, candles, and wreaths.
However, there is an option to have a memorial stone placed at the burial site. It measures about 20 x 20 cm and is placed into the forest floor. The stone is uniformly inscribed. It shows the first name, family name, birth year, and year of death. This reflects the wishes of those with burial rights.
Simple, dignified, and non-denominational farewell ceremonies should take place at the designated farewell area in the Ruhewald Wittnau. These ceremonies are coordinated with officials. Larger farewell events can be held in churches.
The Ruhewald Wittnau is always open to visitors. Guided tours are available upon request. These tours provide information. You can ask specific questions to the team. You can also choose a burial plot during these tours. The Ruhewald Wittnau offers a peaceful return to nature.