One of my favorite things about wandering through cemeteries is discovering unique gravestone symbols. Over the years, I have noticed that certain motifs pop up again and again. It’s so interesting to see how these symbols can change depending on where you are.

Today, I want to take a closer look at the chalice as a gravestone symbol—what it represents and how it’s been depicted in different places. The variations I have found over the years show just how much it can change depending on location. It’s interesting to note that the chalice is a very common symbol in the Abitibi-Temiscamingue region of Quebec.

The chalice is a Christian symbol, that is commonly depicted as a cup with a stem, similar to a wine glass. It is thought to symbolize Christianity’s holy sacrament and the act of communion. It can also represent mankind’s deep yearning to be filled with Christ’s divine teachings and grace.¹

Cemetery Fugèreville, Fugèreville QC ©2024

Saint-Stanislas-de-Champlain Cemetery, Saint-Stanislas-de-Champlain QC ©2012

Sometimes the chalice is depicted with a circle above it, symbolizing the consecrated Eucharist, which represents the Catholic rite of Holy Communion. This combination of symbols is often found on the gravestones of priests.²

Cimetière de Laverlochère, Laverlochere QC ©2024

Cimetière de Latulipe, Gaboury QC ©2024

Cimetière d’Angliers, Angliers QC ©2024

Have you come across a chalice symbol on your cemetery walks? Or noticed any other symbols that pop up often in your local cemeteries? I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

Thanks for reading!

---

References:

1. Understanding Cemetery Symbols: A Field Guide for Historic Graveyards by Tui Snider
2. Headstone Symbols: Understanding Cemetery Symbolism | Everlife Memorials