Basis of contemporary sacred architecture : a comparative study of catholic and orthodox principles

Abstract

Sacred architecture is amongst the earliest examples of built architecture and to date remains the greatest architectural challenge. A church in essence marks a pause, a moment of silence and an occasion for reflection and prayer. Divisions in Christianity and differences created in religious philosophies between the Roman Catholic and the Christian Orthodox churches, portrayed through different historical backgrounds, have shaped two different contemporary churches. Understanding factors that led to this includes interrelating the formal religious institutions, the communities of believers and non-believers, historical backgrounds and concluding with architectural theorising. For a more profound understanding of the above factors, this dissertation explores the subject from a comparative point of view outlining some of the basis of contemporary sacred architecture.