
The Cherubino Ghirardacci Study Centre, a Bologna-based research institution and proud member of FRH, is delighted to announce that its open panel proposal has been accepted for the 8th European Academy of Religion (EUARE) conference. EUARE is an international and interdisciplinary network of scholars dedicated to exploring topics related to religion. Each year, it organises a major conference hosted by a different European university. In 2025, the conference will take place in Vienna from July 8 to 12.
The Panel
Sacred Spaces and Community Heritage: Bridging the Tangible and Intangible
Sacred spaces transcend physical boundaries, blending tangible heritage—such as architectural structures and ritual artifacts—with intangible elements, including spiritual practices, oral traditions, and cultural beliefs. This panel seeks to investigate the complex interplay between these dimensions, examining how the physical and metaphysical aspects of sacred spaces shape cultural identity and collective memory.
Key themes include:
- How tangible and intangible aspects of sacred spaces can influence contemporary design practices.
- Legal and ethical challenges in defining, protecting, and harmonizing these dimensions within existing frameworks.
- Strategies to ensure that preserving physical heritage does not compromise intangible cultural expressions, and vice versa.
The discussion will challenge the apparent dichotomy between tangible and intangible heritage, proposing a holistic approach that sees these elements as mutually enriching. By viewing sacred spaces as dynamic entities where material and immaterial coexist, the panel aims to inspire innovative, inclusive strategies for their preservation and evolution.
This interdisciplinary conversation invites contributions from architects, legal experts, cultural practitioners, and other scholars, offering a comprehensive understanding of sacred spaces and their relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Call for contributions
The Cherubino Ghirardacci Study Centre and the panel proponents are currently seeking 7 original and in-depth contributions to complete the panel (12 participants in total), with the possibility of considering publication opportunities for the full texts of the best proposals. Each presentation will be allocated 15–20 minutes.
- Submission period: January 15 to April 4, 2025
- Submission link: https://www.
europeanacademyofreligion.org/ proposal-submission-2025
Please note that selected participants are responsible for their own participation fees (including EUARE membership and conference registration) and accommodation costs. Fees vary depending on the participant’s category and whether early bird rates apply. Details can be found here: https://www.
For additional information, feel free to contact us at posta@ghirardacci.org.
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