This course is dedicated to the study of the intricate relationship between sacredness and space. Sacredness as rooted in religious, ritual and moral source has always been central to individual and communal existence, both in its passive and active aspects. Characteristics of Sacredness attributed to texts, places, sites, buildings, objects, persons etc. were translated in secular societies to agents of changing values highly conceived.

Sacredness has always been integral to the architectural design, both as source of inspiration and as its proper material, acting together as a domain and sign of approval. Architectural and philosophical discussions have always regarded Sacredness as a structural model with metaphorical and metaphysical values which can be translated to formal and material principles. These changing principles are central to both practice and theory of the Arts, in general and of Architecture in particular, concerning the design of spaces, buildings and interiors. Sacredness is usually implemented in absolute values, such as purity, separation and sublime. However, these values are interpreted differently in different cultures. 

During the course the following issues will be discussed: definitions of Sacredness, thoughts and architectural design concerning sacredness, embracing or rejecting positions; the crucial role of architecture in implementing sacredness or dismantling its value in religious or secular compounds. This broad and charged issue with its ever-changing consequences will be discussed, in part, by visiting lecturers ranging from arts, social sciences, humanities and sciences, as a proposal for an inter-disciplinary dialogue between research fields, creative languages, eras and cultures.