The new interment Terraces represent the largest, most complex landscaping and grave development project ever undertaken at the cemetery. Designed to take advantage of the significant location adjacent to the Royal Oak Mausoleum the Terraces has a number of unique features:
The Mausoleum ‘Piazza’: At the north transept of the mausoleum, rustic pavers create a large piazza feeling with a reflecting pool lined with green slate. The plaza overlooks the entire Terraces development area as well as a wide expanse of the northwest section of the cemetery. A sweeping vista of mountains, trees and landscaped grounds not to be missed.
The Interment Terraces & Walk: 4 distinct interment terraces separated by a formal walkway of rustic pavers lined by perennial flower beds. Down the middle of the walkway a water rill slowly takes overflowing water from the mausoleum reflecting pool down to the lower fountain level. The west side of the Terraces will be developed (2009) into unique cremation gardens featuring in-ground as well as above ground columbaria niche interment.
The Fountain Plaza: A large interment area whose central focus is the unique fountain fed by the mausoleum reflecting pool and water rill. The plaza at the fountain was designed for and is large enough to accommodate committal services. Grave types in this area also allow for upright monument and flat marker interments. A grass walkway defined by towering red maples links the area to Section W to the east.
ROYAL OAK BURIAL PARK
We are a B.C.’s largest community owned, not for profit cemetery which was founded in 1922 by the City of Victoria and the District of Saanich. The Burial Park is operated by the Board of Cemetery Trustees of Greater Victoria, comprises 54 hectares of land and employs 16 full time grounds workers and 4 administrative staff.