Grave Crosses in Riga: How to Choose and Install a Cross

A grave cross is chosen by three things: the material (wood or metal), the shape according to denomination and whether the cross is temporary — until a monument is set — or permanent. Demand for crosses rises before the cemetery remembrance days, so it is best not to delay the choice. This article covers the essentials: what crosses are available in Riga, how to choose one and how installation works.

If you are unsure which cross suits a particular grave, a specialist of Riga City Funeral Service will help you choose and take measurements. Call: +371 2944 9849

What grave crosses are available

Most often people choose a wooden or a metal cross; the choice depends on how long the cross will serve and how the grave is arranged.

A cross is installed at the cemetery — for a list of Riga cemeteries and their locations, see the cemeteries section.

How to choose a cross by denomination

The shape of the cross usually matches the denomination of the deceased:

• Orthodox cross — eight-pointed, with an upper crossbar and a slanted lower one;
• Catholic and Lutheran cross — the Latin shape with a single crossbar;
• No denomination — a neutral shape or a grave plate is chosen if the farewell is civil.

If you are unsure about the shape, it can be agreed with the parish or checked with our specialist — we will help choose a suitable option.

Installing the cross: what to consider

A temporary cross is usually set right after the burial, and once the ground has settled (as a rule within a year) it is replaced by a permanent cross or a monument. During installation it is important that the cross is fixed deep enough and stands straight. We can carry out the measuring, making and installation ourselves — you do not need to look for separate craftsmen.

How to order a cross from us

The choice, making and installation of the cross are handled as a single service. What we do:

• help choose the material, shape and size to suit the particular grave;
• take measurements at the cemetery and agree the installation time;
• install the cross and remove the old one if needed;
• take on the grave clean-up before the remembrance days if required.

Call +371 2944 9849 — we will name the available options and agree a day for installation.

Order a cross and installation

Frequently asked questions