After storm damage

Schöcklland cemetery closes for All Saints’ Day

Autumn atmosphere in the cemetery forest near Kumberg.(Bild: FriedWald GmbH)

It was a big shock when the storm Anett caused storm damage in the Schöcklland cemetery forest. Some families even lost the grave tree of their loved ones. For the holidays, the final resting place opens its doors to visitors - at least for the time being.

The storm that hit the municipality of St. Radegund in mid-September left destructive traces - including in the Schöcklland cemetery forest. "Many families lost the grave tree of their loved ones," reports Monika Graber from the operators, "we had to close it immediately after the storm." This was followed by weeks of work: Wind breakage had to be carried out, dangers had to be averted, paths had to be made passable.

In the cemetery forest, the dead are only buried in urns.(Bild: FriedWald GmbH)

Now, just in time for the holidays, the good news: the cemetery forest can open - at least for the time being. Relatives are allowed to visit the graves over the weekend before the place of mourning has to close its doors once again for final work. However, sturdy shoes and caution are advised. It is not yet clear when the all-clear can be given. "The shock was huge for everyone, but there was a lot of understanding," says Graber.

And those families who have lost their beloved tree? "New deciduous trees will be planted." Meanwhile, a second location was opened in Styria in June of this year: The Hügelland cemetery forest near Vasoldsberg offers a new final resting place.