The beliefs of the Iberians had elements in common with other cults around the Mediterranean and there were shared deities. They also showed reverential respect for the forces of nature. The wolf was particularly revered. Their shrines, places of worship and altars were very similar to their houses. Animal sacrifice formed part of their rituals. They had sacred vessels for liturgical use and had household gods. Funeral practices were based on a cremation rite. The ashes of the dead person were buried in an urn, around which personal belongings and offerings to the gods were placed.