Pyre - Definition and Overview

A pyre is a structure, such as a mound of wood, for burning a body as part of a funeral rite. An early form of cremation, a body or bodies is placed upon the pyre and the pyre is set on fire. Pyres are uncommon in the Western world in modern times and have been replaced by indoor cremation in a crematorium.

See also: sati.

External link

• Ancient Roman funeral pyres (http://www.beastcoins.com/Architecture/FuneralPyres/FuneralPyre.htm)