Carlifornia Crematory Manager Practice Exam

Which term describes a dedicated area for the inurnment of cremated remains?

1. Chapel

2. Cemetery

3. Columbarium

4. Mausoleum

The correct answer is: Columbarium

The term "Columbarium" specifically refers to a structure or dedicated area designed for the inurnment of cremated remains. These facilities are built with niches or compartments that hold urns, allowing for respectful and organized storage of ashes after cremation. Columbariums provide a respectful space for family and friends to visit and remember their loved ones. In contrast, while a cemetery is a broader term encompassing burial grounds for both traditional graves and cremated remains, it does not exclusively focus on cremated remains like a columbarium does. A chapel usually serves as a location for memorial services and ceremonies, rather than a permanent resting place for ashes. A mausoleum, while also a structure for entombment, specifically houses caskets rather than urns containing cremated remains. Thus, the term "Columbarium" is uniquely suited to describe areas designated specifically for holding cremated remains.