Northwood Cemetery

One of the most famous deaths in the world was that of Princess Diana. Her funeral was on September 6, 1997 at Westminster Abbey, and nearly 3 million mourners watched.

In a cemetery, there are lots where family members can be buried together. This often comes into play when a family is pre-planning their funeral arrangements.

A mausoleum is a type of burial chamber that is free-standing and built as a monument that encloses the internment spaces of those inside. Historically, mausoleums were built for a deceased leader or important person, but smaller mausoleums soon became popular in many countries.

Offerings of flowers placed at graves were originally put there to promote good will with the spirit of the dead. It was also a tradition to play loud music at an Irish wake to ward off evil spirits.

Did you know that the ancient pyramids of Egypt are actually massive, elaborate grave markers? Although burial rituals have changed in our times, marking the final resting place of loved ones goes back to ancient times.

The recurring images in cemetery headstones, mausoleums, and ironwork fences aren't accidental. They are actually religious, cultural, and career-based iconography -- or rich, unique cemetery art. Some examples are obvious, like statues or carvings of angels. Others like the drawing of sextants on gravestones, (to honor deceased seaman), are more subtle.

Did you know that many traditions surrounding death are performed to help ease a person's soul from one world to the next? Some cultures even believe in burning down or destroying the home of the deceased to prevent his or her spirit from returning.

One great thing about a natural burial is that the deceased is buried in a biodegradable casket that is better for the earth than being buried in a traditional casket.

Many people would say that Marilyn Monroe died too young; she was 36. Her death is still a mystery to most people, and people like to refer to her casket as the Cadillac of caskets. Her casket was made of very expensive materials and was beautifully designed.

Because cemeteries are often viewed as sacred places, violation of the graves or buildings in a cemetery is considered a serious crime with serious consequences. Visitors are requested to keep voices low as a sign of respect for the sanctity of the place as well as for mourners.

Did you know that Playboy founder Hugh Hefner bought a space next to Marilyn Monroe? When he dies, he said he wants to be buried next to the most beautiful woman that ever lived.

Traditionally, in Western culture, people were buried in churchyards; people are now buried in cemeteries that bear close resemblance to public parks. In the 19th century, burying the dead in graveyards was discontinued in favor of public cemeteries, mostly due to space issues.

Cremation is becoming a more viable choice for some families instead of a burial. The cost of cremation is considerably less than a traditional funeral service with burial. You can still have a ceremony to remember your loved one even if you've chosen cremation over burial.