What is a Tomb? How It Differs From a Grave

What is a tomb, and how is it different from a grave? This is a question often asked when exploring historical burial sites or visiting cemeteries. A tomb is a specially built structure that houses the remains of the dead, often created for important or wealthy individuals.

In contrast, a grave is typically a simple burial in the ground. In this guide, we’ll break down the meanings of tombs and graves, highlight their key differences, and explain why these distinctions matter both culturally and historically.

What is a Tomb?

A tomb is an above-ground structure built to hold human remains. It is often made of stone or marble and can be elaborate, depending on the person’s status or wealth. Tombs are typically found in ancient civilizations, royal burial grounds, or monumental cemeteries. Some well-known examples include:

The Tomb of Tutankhamun in Egypt
Taj Mahal in India (technically a grand mausoleum)
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the U.S.

Key Features of a Tomb:

Usually above ground
Architecturally designed and often decorative
Built for honor or remembrance
May contain multiple burials (family tombs)

What is a Grave?

A grave is a specific burial location in the ground, marked by a headstone or grave marker. Most modern cemeteries are filled with individual graves, each containing the remains of one person (sometimes two, in double graves).

Key Features of a Grave:

Underground burial
Marked by a headstone or plaque
Commonly used for individual or family members
Simpler than tombs

Tomb vs Grave – Key Differences

Aspect	Tomb	Grave
Structure	Built structure (above ground)	Simple pit (below ground)
Purpose	Honor, legacy, architectural significance	Burial and remembrance
Who Gets It?	Royals, wealthy, notable figures	Common for the general public
Examples	Mausoleums, pyramids	Cemetery plots, family graves