| The Atlas of Sacred and Spiritual Sites |
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| Reviewed by Harmonious Living | |
| Thursday, 06 December 2007 | |
 Author: David Douglas   The Atlas of Sacred and Spiritual Sites explores places of mystical power from around the world. From the dramatic Marian shrine of Rocamadour in France to the mysterious megaliths of Callanish on the Isle of Lewis, this book examines both ancient and contemporary sites.Humankind has been exploring spiritual expression since he first discovered how to paint images and symbols on the rocks walls of his prehistoric cave. Of the great cathedrals of Europe it has been said they were built so man couldn't doubt the existence of God whilst being in the presence of such overpowering magnificence. Sacred sites and places have formed the heart of cultures throughout the world and existed as places of spiritual awakening, comfort and expression. It is these themes that this delightful coffee table and reference book seek to explore. The Atlas of Sacred and Spiritual Sites takes a backward-looking view of history starting in the first chapter with relatively modern Places of Worship, covering the great cathedrals such as Westminster Abbey, and temples such as the Buddhist temples at Myanmar, in which people have expressed their faith. The next chapter Sites of Pilgrimage traces pilgrimage routes, both ancient and modern, including Santiago de Compostela in Spain and Mecca in Saudia Arabia, and then in Kings, Saint and Sages the role of shrines, such as Lourdes, are honoured. Places of Isolation and Meditation follows with institutions and schools where spiritual practice has been concentrated and intensified to enable the greater possibility of mystical states. Humankind's earliest exploration of spiritual practice is covered in Sacred Stones: Stone Circles and Megaliths, where of course Stonehenge is featured, before the book closes with the natural features of creation honoured in Sacred Land and Water. The author, David Douglas, admits in his intro that this atlas is not complete, that many sacred sites to many people, many cultures and many faiths could have been included, but it is still one of the most comprehensive and impressive books of its kind. Each site is dedicated at least a double page spread, with more pages devoted to the more famous sites such as Stonehenge, and each is complimented by some truly stunning photography, which more often than not captures the unique spirituality of the place and the people's interaction with it. Each of the sites also includes historical references as well as, where appropriate, speculation as to its possible role in within the culture that created them. For those interested, fascinated or intrigued by humankind's expression of spirituality through some of the most inspiring monuments, buildings and temples in the world, this is a wonderful book. For the spiritual tourist this could serve as a starting point to many an enriching journey and will be a source of reference for many years. |
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