Greece's highest court says cremation legal

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The Associated Press Published: September 26, 2008
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ATHENS, Greece: Greece's highest court has approved a government petition to legalize cremation, as well as a list of guidelines on how the ashes may be scattered by relatives.

The country's powerful Orthodox Church opposes cremation, arguing it is contrary to the notion of the resurrection of the dead. But a high court, the Council of State, ruled Friday that an executive order from the government allowing cremation is legal.

It also approved guidelines on where ashes can be scattered: at least 1.5 nautical miles from the shoreline, outside inhabited areas, or in gardens and fountains that will be built at crematoriums.

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