In a surprising turn of events, a public auction for burial plots in Sibiu has left many residents shocked by the steep prices. On March 30, 2025, over 170 graves were put up for auction, primarily located in the luxury area of the cemetery, specifically near the main alley. The starting price for these plots is set at 6,000 lei for single lots and 12,000 lei for double lots, according to Mirela Gligore, the spokesperson for the Sibiu Municipality.
Local residents have expressed their disbelief at the high costs, which they argue are exorbitant, especially for the elderly population, many of whom are on fixed incomes. "It’s expensive, expensive. They could even take 10,000 for a spot," one resident commented, highlighting the financial burden these prices impose on families. Another resident pointed out the troubling reality, stating, "If we think that most who pass away are pensioners, where can they afford this? They had salaries like in the past, and then a pension that is barely enough, so how can they manage?"
The cemetery plots being auctioned are situated in a prime location, with those in the first row costing 20 times more than those located at the edges of the cemetery. This price disparity has raised concerns about accessibility for lower-income individuals and families who may not be able to afford such high fees for a final resting place.
The auction process requires potential bidders to pay a participation fee of 400 lei, adding another layer of financial strain for those interested in securing a burial plot. The plots will be granted for a period of 25 years, with an option for extension after that period. However, it is important to note that those who win the auction will not have the right to sublease, rent, or donate the plots, a stipulation that further complicates the financial implications of purchasing a burial site.
The situation has sparked a broader conversation about the rising costs associated with funerary services and the need for more affordable options for families in Sibiu. As the auction date approached, community members voiced their concerns not only about the immediate financial implications but also about the long-term trends in burial costs.
Many in the community are calling for the local government to reconsider the pricing structure of burial plots. They argue that everyone deserves a dignified resting place, regardless of their financial situation. Some have suggested that the municipality explore alternative models for burial services that could provide more equitable access to all residents.
This auction is not just about the plots themselves; it reflects a growing crisis in how society values life and death. As prices soar, many are left questioning the ethics of profiting from death and the implications for those who cannot afford such expenses.
As the auction unfolds, it remains to be seen how many residents will participate and whether the high costs will deter potential bidders. The emotional weight of these decisions is palpable, as families grapple with the realities of planning for the future while navigating the financial burdens of today.
In a time when many are already struggling with economic challenges, the auction of these burial plots serves as a stark reminder of the disparities in society. Local leaders and community advocates are urged to take action to ensure that all residents can have access to affordable burial options, fostering a sense of dignity and respect for those who have passed.
As the clock ticks down to the auction, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that honors both the living and the deceased with fairness and compassion.
