What is the difference between a columbarium and a mausoleum?

A columbarium is specifically designed for the storage of urns containing cremated remains, while a mausoleum is a structure that serves as a final resting place for entombing bodies. The primary distinction lies in their function and the type of remains they house. Columbariums typically consist of niches where urns can be placed, allowing families to memorialize their loved ones in a distinct and respectful manner. In contrast, mausoleums are larger buildings that often contain crypts or vaults for caskets, safeguarding the remains of individuals who have chosen traditional burial methods.

Understanding this difference is essential in the field of funeral service, as it aids professionals in guiding families toward appropriate choices that suit their cultural, religious, or personal preferences regarding the final disposition of their loved ones' remains.