Cemeteries as Sustainable Elements of Urban Green Space: Legal, Ecological, and Spatial Perspectives from Central and Eastern Europe

As urbanisation accelerates, land-use planning has become a challenging factor in cities’ sustainable development. This process is based both on the historical heritage of Central and Eastern European cities and on concepts combining urban planning with ecology. Cemeteries, traditionally viewed as places of remembrance, hold significant potential as ecological assets within urban environments. On the other hand, they are problematic in relation to the location, neighbourhood, and form of past/present human activity. Many of these aspects are regulated in the investigated countries. This paper examines sustainable cemetery planning from legal, ecological, and spatial perspectives, highlighting their role in addressing environmental challenges while preserving cultural and social values. The research draws on comparative case studies from eight Central and Eastern European countries, combining an analysis of international and national legal frameworks with a functional–spatial assessment of cemetery surroundings. In addition, an environmental survey conducted among experts and residents highlights diverse perceptions regarding cemetery functions and their integration into urban landscapes. The findings demonstrate that policy-based management and multifunctional design are essential for enhancing the ecological, cultural, and social value of cemeteries. Reframing cemeteries as multifunctional green spaces offers a practical pathway toward more resilient and environmentally responsible urban development. Some important differences between the following countries have been observed.