Sacred Places - US News and World Report

Sacred places are as varied as the human sense of the sacred and as various as the world's many spiritual traditions. We explore the history, significance, and enduring power of places here and abroad that people consider most sacred.

A HISTORY OF BELIEF

New Mexico offers glimpses of old creeds and insights into contemporary spirituality.

ENDANGERED PLACES

For some places, the peril is neglect; for others, it is development.

PERSONAL PLACES

Sometimes it’s what you do in a place that gives it a special meaning.

HOUSES OF WORSHIP

From the Puritan icon to the new megachurch, values have shaped space.

PHOTO GALLERY

Spiritual corners of New Mexico through photographer Jim Lo Scalzo's lens.

 

 

THE ANCIENTS

Places from the distant past that embody the sacred beliefs of their times.

THE RELIGIONS OF ABRAHAM

Places sacred to the three major faiths that trace their roots to Abraham: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.

EASTERN FAITHS

The holiest sites for Hindus, Buddhists, Shintoists, Sikhs and Confucians.

THE SEEKERS

Places that draw pilgrims of various beliefs—and the simply curious.

More Special Reports

PHOTO CREDITS: Mezquita of Cordoba: JEAN DOMINIQUE DALLET-AURORA; Karnak Temple: JONATHAN BLAIR-CORBIS; Church of the Holy Sepulchre: JIM HOLLANDER-EPA/CORBIS; Golden Temple: RAMINDER PAL SINGH-EPA/CORBIS; Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela: MIGUEL VIDAL-REUTERS

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