My wife born in the US had wished that her cremated remains be taken to Italy and then scattered in the mountains, we had lived in Lucca a number of years ago. I have been able to determine what regulations "our" TSA has on flying her ashes (ie able to x-ray), however the Italian Consulate appears to be objecting to my transporting the ashes and then my scattering them in the mountains. In researching the internet their seems to be a lot of conflicting information concerning Italian Regulations vs. The Church's position.
Does anyone know if a private person can actually transport cremated ashes into Italy and then privately scatter them? Or is it necessary for a funeral home in the US to ship the ashes directly to a funeral home in Italy? Thirdly, If the ashes are able to get into Italy by either of the above can the family still scatter them in the mountains, (or) is it required that the ashes be taken to an Italian cemetery? Lastly, if the ashes must go to a cemetery, can they be scattered there or is a interment required. Thank you for any informatio you may have.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32201 posts
William, To begin with, I've very sorry for your loss. Your questions are a bit difficult to answer, as I've never encountered this situation before. I suspect that the easiest solution will be to minimize the amount of bureaucracy that you deal with concerning this. Hopefully one of the group here will have a few suggestions for you. Good luck!
Posted by
Monterosso al Mare, Italy
1 posts
Hi William, I sent you a private message. Please let me know if you do not receive it.
Kate
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23267 posts
This issue is so complicated that I would not rely on an information from this site as most would be only question. It would be a problem in the US as you cannot just go scattering ashes anywhere. My request has been to be dumped under the Mercury chair lift at Breckenridge so they would visit frequently. Huge NO, NO. You really need to be in contact with a Italy consulate somewhere even if they are giving you an answer you do not like..
Posted by
OP
Port St. Lucie, Florida
2 posts
Thank you everyone for your information. The Italian Consulate's Office has been very helpful, however it appears that the current laws in Italy do not allow for cremated remains to be "scattered" and they would require that the ashes be interned in a cemetery in Italy. I think that all of our family will go the the beach, here in Florida, and let the Atlantic Ocean made the "connection" back to Italy. Again thank you for your assistance.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32740 posts
William, I am sorry for your loss and hope that you find answers to help you through this difficult time. I wish that there were something I could do to help you with the process. Best wishes
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
162 posts
I have no answers but to say, I am sorry for your loss and sincerely hope you find a way to honor your beloved wife's wish.