Malaga City - English Cemetery Today |
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English Cemetery today
By Chris Chaplow and Robina Lowry
Foundation
On 21st June 2006 the 'English Cemetery in Malaga Foundation' was formally established. The President is the British Consul in Malaga and its Executive Board comprises three Spaniards, three Britons, one German and one Italian, and includes three members of St George's Church. The church itself, in the centre of the cemetery, is looked after by the Anglican Chaplaincy of Saint George, Malaga. The cemetery used to be owned by the British government. However since no funds had been provided for its upkeep for many years. While recognising the cemetery as an important part of the city's history, the Malaga Town Hall was also reluctant to devote more than minimal funds to it.
Friends of the Cemetry
The group "Friends of the English Cemetery at Málaga" was founded to support the English Cemetery at Malaga Foundation, a non-profit organization, in its efforts to preserve, maintain and promote the historical and cultural heritage of the Cemetery. All new members will receive a copy of the book "The English Cemetery at Málaga" written by Marjorie Grice-Hutchinson and also enjoy other benefits. Minimum annual membership donation is 20 €. More info on Cemetery website.
Funerary Services
William Mark’s purpose in creating the English Cemetery was to provide a peaceful and dignified burial site for British Subjects who died within his Consular jurisdiction. Shortly after its inauguration, it was opened to Protestants of all nationalities and in the 1950 this was extended to those of the Roman Catholic or other faiths. During the 190 years of its existence over a thousand persons of all nationalities and faiths have chosen the English Cemetery in Malaga as their final resting place.
Given that the cemetery is registered as an asset of historic and cultural interest (Bien de Interes Cultural), the cemetery can only accept cremated remains. The cemetery currently offers two alternatives for the deposit of ashes, Columbarium on a wall and Columbarium in the ground. More infomation from the Cemetery website.
