Greek headstones in Sydney
A comprehensive guide to Greek Orthodox headstones and monuments in Sydney. It covers different monument types, the three-bar cross and Greek inscriptions, what a headstone costs, and how to arrange one through a monumental mason.
Designs and materials
Upright marble monuments are common, bearing the three-bar Orthodox cross and often a ceramic photograph and a candle vigil (kandili).
Common types of Greek monuments
Most Greek graves take one of a few monument forms. What you can choose depends on the cemetery and the section it sits in.
A marble or granite upright with a ledger covering the whole grave, often kerbed, with the three-bar Orthodox cross, a ceramic photograph and a kandili. The traditional and most common Greek form.
An upright marble headstone on a base at the head of the grave, carrying the cross, the Greek and English inscription, and often a ceramic photo.
An upright headstone set on a concrete beam in a grassed lawn section, with no covering slab. The most affordable form, used in the newer lawn sections.
A flat or slightly raised slab laid over the whole grave, sometimes with a small upright tablet. A simpler, lower-profile monument.
Inscriptions and wording
Greek and English, the Orthodox cross, and often 'Αιωνία η μνήμη' (memory eternal).
Customs and tradition
The funeral service is held in church, followed by burial (Orthodox tradition does not permit cremation). Memorial services (mnemosyna) with koliva are held at 40 days and on anniversaries.
Visiting and remembrance
Families light the kandili, bring koliva at memorials, and visit at 40 days and on anniversaries.
Where Greek families are buried in Sydney
Greek Orthodox sections are found across Sydney's cemeteries. Each links to that cemetery's Greek section, with its location and costs:
What a headstone costs
The headstone is made and installed by a monumental mason, separately from the cemetery plot. As an indicative guide, a lawn monument runs about $1,500 to $7,000 and a full single monument from about $12,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Greek headstone look like?
Upright marble monuments are common, bearing the three-bar Orthodox cross and often a ceramic photograph and a candle vigil (kandili).
What inscription goes on a Greek headstone?
Greek and English, the Orthodox cross, and often 'Αιωνία η μνήμη' (memory eternal).
How are Greek graves visited and remembered?
Families light the kandili, bring koliva at memorials, and visit at 40 days and on anniversaries.
How much does a Greek headstone cost in Sydney?
As an indicative guide, a lawn monument or plaque runs about $1,500 to $7,000, and a full single monument from about $12,000. The headstone is quoted by a monumental mason, separately from the cemetery plot. Material, size, carving and the inscription move the figure.