Blending the Subjective and Objective Realms of Sacred Architecture at the Pantheon: Creating a Comparative Framework for Evaluating Transformative Experiences in Ritual Contexts

Brandon Richard Ro

doi:10.3390/rel13010075

Abstract

This paper seeks to create a comparative framework for evaluating transformative experiences for different types of ritual contexts found in sacred architecture by bridging the gap between the phenomenology of human experience and architecture’s built conditions. The methodology creates a framework for statistical analysis, whereby evidence of people’s actual (i.e., real, lived) “subjective” experiences can be evaluated against the “objective” architectural conditions. The comparative framework is put to the test by comparing the experiential and environmental conditions found at the Pantheon in Rome. Experiential data for the Pantheon is extracted from Julio Bermudez’s large survey database (N = 2872) of “extraordinary architectural experiences” for this study. This data is compared against “objective” graphical architecture analysis using Lindsay Jones’ “morphology of ritual-architectural priorities” with a specific focus on ritual contexts. The quantitative and qualitative data reveals that the Pantheon produces transformative experiences for visitors that are related to the expected outcomes of specific design features. The percentages from the “objective” and “subjective” analysis both rank the priorities of theatre, contemplation, and sanctuary in the same order. This study concludes that built environments possessing a higher presence and quality of “ritual-architectural priorities” are more likely to be perceived as sacred and produce transformative experiences.

Highlights

Sacred spaces have the potential of creating lasting and meaningful experiences for human beings
“For example, Religions 2022, 13, 75 how do the psychological states reported by multiple individuals at the Pantheon in Rome correlate to the physical attributes of that place? Are there links between such relationships and those found for other buildings? Can we develop psychological and architectural frameworks or profiles that favor extraordinary architectural experiences” (EAEs)?” (Bermudez 2009)
After setting up an extensive comparative framework thatritual bridges the gap during betweengraphic particular case study. model for interpreting sacred architecture and Julio Bermudez’s conceptual survey database for “extraordinary architectural experiences”, it is time to test the model

Summary

Introduction

Sacred spaces have the potential of creating lasting and meaningful experiences for human beings. One needs to consider the Pantheon in Rome, Chartres Cathedral, or Notre Dame-du-haut in Ronchamp, France (Bermudez and Ro 2012, 2013). Many of these sacred buildings are included in the history books because they continuously produce some of the most profound aesthetic human experiences. Despite their time, culture, or place, each building is a “timeless” piece of architecture that continues to create memorable experiences that speak to the human soul. Little attention has gone to actual ‘subjective’ reactions (e.g., emotions; body reactions; levels of spontaneity, volition, or introspection; focus; reached insight, etc.)” (Bermudez and Ro 2012, p. 689)

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion