This museum proved to be morbidly interesting!
Funeral customs are as old as civilization itself. Every culture attended to the proper care of their dead. Some burial customs, however, were based on fear of the dead. Other rituals and ceremonies were practiced to show respect for the deceased and mourn them. Originally, the family or community took care of the funeral, but later the task was assigned to the religious community. Professional funeral services emerged only in the early 20th century.
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| The Viennese of the 19th and 20th century loved showing their finery, and funerals were no exception. |
At one time there were 87 funeral establishments (no training required), but Frans Joseph put an end to that when he set up a monopoly and instituted this place as a working funeral home.
Years ago people purchased their coffin well before their death in order to be sure they had it when needed. The only problem was where in their small apartment with no garage would one store such a large piece? Well, the creative juices began to flow! They proved to be excellent bookshelves and wardrobes, often painted to match the decor.
Another interesting invention was the addition of a pull cord to the coffins which was attached to a bell (just in case the person wasn't really dead.) The only problem was that the bells were constantly ringing as the bodies moved during decomposition. Apparently, it was more for the peace of mind of those left behind.
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| Some evidently preferred to be buried sitting up! |
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| The urns for ashes of those cremated were purchased with the dearly departed's interests in mind. |
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| This was my favorite coffin. Many poor people couldn't afford a coffin so the same one was used for everyone. The body was wrapped and the coffin was placed over the grave. At the appropriate time the bottom dropped open and the body dropped into the grave. |
I think our tour guide did a great job of being rather enthusiastic amid all of the coffins and urns.
Following our "field trip" we walked across the street to Cafe Goldegg to enjoy coffee, cakes, and visiting.
