In Germany most cemeteries contain only relatively recent grave markers, going back at most one or two generations. This is because families of the deceased typically only rent the graves for a fixed number of years, usually 15-30.

If the family is unable or unwilling to renew the lease, the grave returns to state ownership and the remains are removed and either cremated or moved to a deeper, common gravesite elsewhere.

Because of this cemetery tradition, it is unusual to find examples of very old cemeteries and grave markers. A notable exception is the Historical Cemetery in Flintsbach am Inn, in southern Bavaria. The Flintsbach cemetery has a large collection of old ironwork grave markers, most of them painted in a traditional folk art style. In addition to the unique old iron grave markers, there is a small ossuary housing a handful of skulls.