Sanctuaries between Materiality and Mentality

Sanctuaries, such as the Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos, serve as critical lenses for understanding the interplay between materiality and mentality in ancient societies. This study highlights how archaeological research on sanctuaries—focusing on their architectural elements, cult objects, and ritual remains—can be linked to immaterial aspects like rituals, social interactions, piety, and emotions. By integrating methods from social anthropology, religious studies, and cognitive science, the research reveals deeper insights into the symbolic significance of these sites, emphasizing the role of senses such as sound and smell in shaping religious experiences.

Chaniotis, A. (2025). Sanctuaries between Materiality and Mentality. Sanctuaires et Paysages. La (Re)découverte Des Lieux de Culte En Méditerranée Centrale et Orientale, 436–445. https://doi.org/10.47245/sanctuaires-paysages.art.19