The Rome city authorities have approved new rulings concerning the final destination of ashes following cremation. Previously ashes could only be kept in consecrated ground, in an authorised cemetery. The new ruling allows them to be released to a family member, if the deceased has left a document in which this is requested

The scattering of ashes will not be allowed, and to ensure that a check is kept on their whereabouts, the recipient will have to state where they are to be kept, and must advise the relevant authority if the ashes are moved to a different address. The new ruling is expected to come into effect by the end of December. For information tel. 06 49236243.