Why Do Tombstones Often Face East?

Tombstones in traditional Western cemeteries usually face east. According to Northumberland County Council, the tradition began when Pagans buried the dead so they would face the rising sun. The tradition continued in Judeo-Christian societies. While Jews and Christians were not the first to bury the dead facing east, the layout of these cemeteries today stems directly from biblical history and societal tradition. Although modern cemeteries may have graves facing other directions, east-facing tombstones are still found in many traditional Christian and Jewish cemeteries.