Ancient burrial mounds

[Thunderbird+]

Is it known how they were constructed, how was the dead buried in them and was more earth piled on top as more bodies were added ?
I'm mainly refering to those found in theBritish isles but anywhere else may be of interest too.
Thank You.

[heathfield]

Both the method of construction, and of interment, varied considerably over time and location. Some contain cremated remains, some, simply several peoples bones, and some where the body or bodies were laid out whole.
There are stone-chambered mounds, and those with shelves, and those where stoneware jars were simply covered with earth.
Best to have a browse on Google for info on all the different types.

[Octavius]

A tumulus is a mound of earth and stones raised over a grave or graves. Tumuli are also known as barrows, burial mounds or kurgans and can be found throughout much of the world. A tumulus composed largely or entirely of stones is usually referred to as a cairn.

The method of inhumation may involve a cist, a mortuary enclosure, a mortuary house or a chamber tomb. Examples of barrows include Duggleby Howe and Maeshowe.

A long barrow is a prehistoric monument dating to the Neolithic period. Neolithic people buried their dead in Megalithic tombs (i.e. surrounded by large slabs covered with smaller stones). This site shows info on one type:

http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/prehistori c_burials.pdf

[brionon]

It is believed that many burial practices ,here and elsewhere ,were rituals to ensure the well being of the dead in the next world; Who can say they were wrong ?
Why the christians,of course; they know that there's is the ''Only true relogion' so thet dig them up, invade the pyramids etc.-. Perhaps they are condemning the dead to misery in their 'Heaven', but they know best,don't they ?

[Octavius]

oh dear brionon, your tired old anti-religious rants invading yet another topic. Hoestly, I believe you think more about religion than I do and I'm a catholic. Change the record.

[Thunderbird+]

Thank you all, I've found some interesting sites to browse at.

[brionon]

Octo, Do you think it right to desecrate the graves of those of other Religions ? I shall continue to attack the 3 middle east religions because the cause Hatreds, Misery and Misogyny.

[Octavius]

I know brionon, Time Team are terrible aren't they. That Tony Robinson deserves a good talking to.

There is a question here somewhere about the existence of God and the X-Factor, surely there is enough meat there for you to climb aboard your soap box and create a tenuous link about the 3 major religions and Simon Cowell?

The original Q is about the architecture and structural composition of ancient burial mounds. Hopefully Thunderbird+ has learnt from the previous answers rather than these tedious ramblings. Sorry TB+