If spaces could talk…in fact they do!  Ideas dwell in space. The course examines the relation between architecture and religious ideas and how the experience of diaspora affects church space and practices. Through observing architecture, decoration, and activities performed in the buildings, the course explores how time and space are adapted and offers practical knowledge on how to decipher the changes.

We will discuss the concepts of religion, "official" religion, vernacular religion (the way people “do religion”), and its folkloric roots. Students will take part in a variety of observations in different sites (if permitted; otherwise there will be video tours).