Touring exhibition "150 years of cremation in Germany" visits Jena Crematorium

On August 16 and 17, 2025, the nationally renowned traveling exhibition "150 Years of Cremation in Germany" made a stop at the Jena Crematorium at the North Cemetery. Around 60 interested visitors took the opportunity to find out about the history and development of cremation in Germany free of charge.

Modern cremation up close

In short introductions and personal discussions, the crematorium staff provided in-depth insights into today's cremation culture. Many visitors were interested in the cremation process and the allocation of the ashes. At Jena Crematorium, the identity of the deceased is carefully safeguarded throughout the cremation process: A fireproof firebrick with a consecutive number is burned together with the coffin and then transferred to the urn together with the ashes.

The cremation itself takes place at temperatures of at least 850 °C in a deck oven and takes around four hours until the ashes are removed - including incineration, cooling and processing. The function of the coffin as an energy source was also received with interest.

Quiet moments of remembrance

The audience was particularly moved by the opportunity to light a candle in memory of the victims of the Nazi era. This silent form of remembrance gave the exhibition a dignified, thoughtful setting.

Positive response and successful atmosphere

The exhibition was also praised several times for how well it fitted in with the rooms of the crematorium in terms of content and atmosphere. The event impressively demonstrated that the topic of cremation is not only highly relevant historically, but also socially. The Jena Crematorium feels encouraged to continue openly discussing issues of funeral culture and to promote dialog with the public.