The ancient practice of burial in jars in San Remigio, Cebu provides insights into the early funeral traditions of the region. To respect those who are no longer with us, especially with the recent All Souls Day, let us share to you the practices of burial jars that show the cultural complexity and varied beliefs of early Filipino societies.
WHAT ARE BURIAL JARS?
Burial jars come in different shapes and sizes. They are found mainly in cave sites, coastal areas, and open hilly regions across the Philippines. The sizes and forms of these jars vary, reflecting different customs and beliefs.
There are two types of burial; primary and secondary. Primary burial involves placing the entire body directly inside a large jar in a flexed or fetal-like position. It indicates that the jar was the first and only resting place of the deceased. Secondary burial is more common during the Metal Age. It involves a process where the body is first buried in a temporary location. Later, the skeletal remains are cleaned and transferred into a smaller jar. This process might reflect beliefs about honoring or transitioning the spirit of the deceased.
HISTORY
This tradition dates back to around 500 BCE to 500 CE, during what is known as the Metal Age, approximately 2,500 to 1,500 years ago. Excavations in 2011 and 2012 around San Juan Nepomuceno Parish Church and Lapyahan Beach revealed evidence of early Cebuano burial practices, showcasing the cultural richness of pre colonial Cebu.
VISITING THE MUSEUM
To learn more about these ancient practices and the way early Cebuanos honored their departed loved ones, you can visit Gallery 2, Ang Karaang Sugbo ug ang Kabiling Bahandi at the National Museum Cebu. This exhibition helps shed light on the funeral customs and everyday lives of the pre colonial people of Cebu, preserving their rich history and cultural heritage.
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