From Ethiopian synagogues to French cathedrals, from Mayan pyramids to Japanese temples: 50 sacred places to discover
There are places that exist beyond time, where we feel small - yet deeply human. In a time when the fast pace of daily life often distances us from ourselves, rediscovering ancient and mystical spaces such as temples and sanctuaries becomes a precious opportunity - not only to find peace, but also to experience something different. Guardians of centuries of history and spirituality, these places offer an oasis of calm and reflection, where silence and beauty help us reconnect with what truly matters. Walking among the columns of an ancient temple or stepping into the atmosphere of a remote sanctuary is like taking a journey into the heart of our humanity.
The book The Book of Temples (Gestalten, 2025) celebrates this rediscovery, guiding the reader through 50 sacred sites across five continents: from Ethiopian synagogues to French cathedrals, from Mayan pyramids to Japanese temples. This collection of spiritual architecture reflects the richness of global devotion. Curated by award-winning journalist Marianne Julia Strauss, The Book of Temples invites readers, page after page, to explore the architectural beauty and spirituality these places embody true works of art born from the human desire to connect with something greater. The book offers a visually moving narrative, accompanied by essays that delve into the cultural and spiritual significance of each site, encouraging reflection on how spirituality is a unifying element in our shared history.
It’s no surprise, then, that travel to sacred places is on the rise: according to the World Tourism Organization, more than 330 million people each year travel for religious or spiritual reasons, seeking authentic experiences and moments of reflection away from the fast pace of modern life. In this context, The Book of Temples becomes more than a catalog of architectural wonders — it is an invitation to slow down, to be inspired by the energy of places that speak to the heart, and to rediscover a deep connection with ourselves and the world around us.
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