Sanctuaries and sacred spaces in the Maltese Islands

Abstract

This dissertation aims to identify elements and patterns that comprise the basic constituents of the form and composition of sacred space by studying selected examples of sacred architecture on the Maltese Islands. At no point in this investigation is the proof conclusive, yet it is hoped that by the cumulative weight of the evidence the goal of this written work is achieved. Following a brief introduction, this dissertation is divided into two parts: Part One defines and investigates architectural archetypes. Moreover, aspects of what makes a place sacred are examined fundamentally in terms of their physical and symbolic characteristics. Part Two outlines and discusses such elements of unity, or archetypes, as well as the meaning ritual and myth attributed to sites that directly served or still serve religious rituals, based on available historical and literary information, including descriptions of their use. In describing the ancient sites, one cannot know with any certainty what meaning they held for their creators and users, soo assumptions will need to be made concerning the experience of architecture at the time it was built and limitations accepted as to our ability to understand the religion of that time.