What is a cenotaph?

A cenotaph is a monument erected to honor a person or group whose remains are located elsewhere. The significance of a cenotaph lies in its function as a place of remembrance for those who may not have a grave in a conventional cemetery, either because they were buried in a distant location or their remains may have been lost or never recovered. Such monuments often serve to commemorate soldiers lost in battle, historical figures, or individuals whose bodies are not accessible for burial in their homeland.

This distinguishes a cenotaph from other options that relate to burial practices or physical remains. For instance, a burial plot with multiple occupants refers to a shared burial site, a type of urn is specifically designed for holding cremated remains, and a natural burial site usually emphasizes environmentally friendly practices for interring bodies. The uniqueness of a cenotaph is its role in honoring the memory of the deceased rather than serving as a resting place for their physical remains.