Initially, the deceased is transported from the place of death for an autopsy. In Hungary, an autopsy is mandatory in most cases.
This is followed by basic hygienic care, dressing, and placing in a coffin.
After embalming, the body is prepared and dressed. The deceased is dressed in clothing chosen by the family, and the limbs are carefully arranged to ensure a natural and peaceful appearance. The face and hands of the deceased are groomed and made up to achieve the most natural look possible.
This process ensures that the body is placed in the coffin with dignity and in proper condition, ready for transportation and the funeral ceremony. The experts at Antea ensure that every step is carried out with the utmost care and respect. Once the body is prepared, it is carefully placed in a coffin lined with soft material, which is then closed. The coffin is securely sealed to ensure the body's cleanliness and dignity during transportation and the funeral. It is important to note that the deceased's body is treated with respect and reverence.
During the second transport, the deceased is transported to the place of burial either by road or by air.
When is an autopsy not performed in Hungary?
An autopsy may be omitted in Hungary if the following conditions are all met:
The death was natural,
The cause of death is clear,
No further significant information is expected from the autopsy,
In the case of a hospital death, if the attending physician and pathologist, or in the case of an out-of-hospital death, the examining doctor and attending physician do not deem the autopsy necessary,
The deceased requested the omission of the autopsy during their lifetime, or their relative requested it after death.
In cases of suspected criminal activity, a forensic pathologist always performs the autopsy.
What kind of clothes is the deceased dressed in before being placed in the coffin?
If suitable clothing is not available for the deceased due to the death occurring abroad, Antea can assist in several ways to ensure that the deceased is dressed appropriately:
1. Procuring chosen attire locally
Antea collaborates with experienced local partners to help obtain suitable clothing in the respective country. Our network allows us to quickly and efficiently find clothing that respects the wishes of the deceased and their family.
2. Providing standard funeral attire
Antea has a stock of standard funeral attire kept for such situations. These funeral garments are elegant and dignified, ensuring the deceased is appropriately dressed in the coffin.
3. Seeking personalised solutions
If the family has specific requests regarding the deceased’s attire, we strive to fulfil these wishes.
Antea always aims to ensure that the deceased is placed in the coffin with dignity and that the family’s needs and wishes are met, regardless of the circumstances.
Can the coffin be opened upon arrival in the destination country during international repatriation?
Every country has its own legal requirements and regulations concerning the transport of the deceased and the opening of coffins. Some countries strictly regulate or prohibit the opening of coffins for health and safety reasons, while others may be more lenient. It is important to research the regulations of the destination country in advance and, if necessary, consult with local authorities or funeral service providers.
During international repatriation, the coffin is often sealed or closed to ensure the safety and integrity of the body during transport. Opening such seals or closures may require obtaining the appropriate official permissions and organising re-sealing.
If personal items are to be placed with the deceased in the coffin, it is best to arrange this before transport. During coordination with the funeral service provider, you can request that such items be placed in the coffin before transport.
If family members wish to take a final farewell and view the deceased, it is advisable to organise this before transport.
Antea’s services aim to accommodate such needs as best as possible. It is important to coordinate with the family and local authorities in advance to ensure all necessary permissions and arrangements are in place. Our goal is to respect the family’s needs and wishes fully and ensure a dignified farewell.