Greening and Humanizing Cemeteries: A Path to Reinvigoration
Cemeteries, traditionally perceived as solemn spaces of mourning, are undergoing a transformation. Amidst concerns over their declining visitation, urban planners and policymakers are exploring innovative ways to make these hallowed grounds more welcoming and accessible to the living.
The Appeal of Verdant and Inviting Cemeteries
The concept of "park cemeteries" is gaining traction, particularly in metropolitan areas like Bordeaux, France. These cemeteries aim to preserve the sanctity of the dead while creating spaces that foster a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. The Agence d’urbanisme Bordeaux Aquitaine (A’urba) envisions cemeteries as places where people can not only visit loved ones but also engage in leisurely activities such as strolling, picnicking, and seeking respite under the shade of trees.
"The cemetery of tomorrow could be a place where one can connect with nature, enjoy a moment of peace, or even have a picnic while respecting the memory of the deceased," suggests Françoise Le Lay, co-editor of the quarterly review "Cahiers de la métropole bordelaise."
The impetus for this shift stems from the observation that cemeteries in Bordeaux and other urban centers often remain isolated and underutilized. By introducing more greenery and open spaces, urban planners hope to create environments that encourage visitation and foster a sense of tranquility.
Bridging the Divide: Respect and Enjoyment
Balancing the sacred nature of cemeteries with their potential as recreational spaces poses a delicate challenge. "We know that creating such a hybrid space will inevitably meet with resistance from some," acknowledges Françoise Le Lay. "These are, above all, places of rest for the dead. How can we reconcile these seemingly contradictory functions?"
The solution, according to experts, lies in striking a delicate balance. Cemeteries should not lose their inherent sanctity or become mere recreational grounds. Instead, they should evolve into places that honor the dead while also providing solace and enjoyment for the living.
Historical Context and Cultural Perspectives
The current French model of cemeteries has remained largely unchanged for over two centuries, following the pattern established by the Père-Lachaise Cemetery in Paris. This model emphasizes seclusion, with enclosed walls and graves marked by tombstones. However, this design stands in stark contrast to the cemeteries of pre-Revolutionary France, which were more open and integrated into community life.
Damien Le Guay, president of the National Funeral Ethics Committee, notes that "before 1789, cemeteries were open fields where the dead were buried in shrouds, without crosses. People lived in close proximity to these burial grounds, which were vibrant spaces where the living and the departed coexisted."
The Significance of Social and Spiritual Connection
Despite the shift towards more enclosed cemeteries, the French remain deeply attached to these spaces of remembrance. "Every year, 23 million people visit cemeteries for All Saints’ Day, making it one of the most significant social events of the year," observes Damien Le Guay.
This attachment underscores the importance of cemeteries as places of reflection, remembrance, and connection with the past. While efforts to make cemeteries more inviting and accessible are commendable, they should not overshadow the profound emotional and spiritual significance these spaces hold for many.
Balancing Ecology and Heritage
The drive to transform cemeteries into greener and more welcoming spaces must be tempered with respect for their cultural and historical heritage. "All cities are seeking to enhance the appeal of their cemeteries," says Guillaume Fontaine, president of the National Funeral Federation. "However, we must remember that these are sacred and symbolic places. Elected officials approach these changes with caution."
Damien Le Guay cautions, "While ecological ambitions are important, they should not overshadow the anthropological and spiritual purpose of cemeteries. These are places where we connect with our departed loved ones and honor their memory."
The transformation of cemeteries is not a short-term endeavor. It requires careful planning, sensitivity to cultural nuances, and a commitment to preserving the sanctity of these hallowed grounds while adapting them to the evolving needs of society. By embracing a holistic approach that respects both the dead and the living, urban planners and policymakers can create cemeteries that are both meaningful and inviting, spaces that honor the past while embracing the future.
