A matter of life and death

Many foreign residents on Lanzarote have discovered that post-death procedures and customs are slightly different on Lanzarote. But they are also something that many will have to face up to at some point. We spoke to Funeraria Arroyo about the process.

Funeraria Arroyo are a family undertakers’ business that has been operating on Lanzarote since 1937. We spoke to Margui Arroyo, who runs the business with her daughter Alexandra.

How do people usually first contact you, Margui?

We’re well-known on the island and many clients have used our services previously. New clients may be referred to us by their insurer, and the hospital also provides a list of undertakers to the bereaved.

Funerals in Spain seem to take place much faster than in the UK. Are there time limits?

No. In the past, this tradition arose because of the difficulty of storing bodies in warm climates, but that’s no longer a factor. It’s a custom really, but it’s also true that most people take more time to arrange things these days. There are no legal time limits.

What sort of funerals are available?

Burial in a cemetery is not usual here. Only one cemetery on the island still carries out burials and it is extremely expensive. Entombment in a raised vault called a nicho is more usual, and cremations are increasingly popular, possibly because of financial considerations.

What are the practices concerning ashes?

Ashes are often kept in the cemetery, or we can arrange for them to be disposed of. Spanish environmental law is quite strict on the disposal of ashes, so we can help with that and provide biodegradable urns for sea or land.

Can you repatriate bodies?

We can arrange that. We’ve also done it the other way, with people who have died abroad. Most foreign clients who choose this option have insurance policies.

Customer service must be a very important element of what you do.

Of course. There’s a lot of psychology involved a lot of patience at a very difficult time. We can provide translators for all languages.

Do you have any advice for people who may be preparing for a death?

Yes, come and talk to us. Many people think that you only call the undertaker after a death, but we’re available to talk about options and planning all the time.