Mursko Središće introduces American-style burial method

The city of Mursko Središće in Croatia has introduced an “American-style” burial method at its local cemetery to address space shortages and rising costs. Managed by the municipal company MURS-EKOM, this pilot project utilizes flat grave markers instead of traditional, expensive upright monuments. This approach allows the surrounding area to remain as landscaped green space.

Mayor Dražen Srpak noted that the new method significantly reduces costs for families. While a standard grave site costs approximately 5,000 euros, the American-style option, including the grave site, costs 2,500 euros. The municipal company handles the maintenance of the green areas and markers, leaving families only to visit and place flowers or candles.

The project has seen immediate interest, with three of the initial four sites sold immediately upon announcement. Due to this demand, officials plan to expand the project to a total of 14 sites. The initiative is part of a broader effort to manage limited cemetery capacity, a challenge currently facing most cities across Croatia.