At the center of the world
polar symbolism discovered in Celtic, Norse, and other …
John F. Michell
184 pages | ~5 hrs
Comparative Religion
At the center of the world
polar symbolism discovered in Celtic, Norse, and other ritualized landscapes
By John F. Michell
In this fascinating exploration of sacred geography, John F. Michell unveils the ancient wisdom behind humanity's most revered centers of power and spiritual significance. Drawing from archaeological evidence and mythological traditions, he reveals how our ancestors understood the profound connection between physical landscape and cosmic order.
Michell guides readers through a journey across time and cultures, examining how ancient rulers positioned themselves at the ritual heart of their territories—places considered the very birthplace of their people. These sacred centers, marked by the omphalos or "navel of the world," served as cosmic anchor points where earthly governance reflected celestial harmony.
From Akhenaten's revolutionary city in Egypt to the ceremonial centers of Celtic Cornwall and Roman Gaul, the author traces common patterns that transcend cultural boundaries. His investigation extends to the "Thing" places of Shetland, Orkney, and the Faroe Islands, where Norse and Celtic peoples gathered for their most important religious and governmental rituals.
Through careful analysis of symbolic geography and sacred geometry, Michell uncovers the mathematical principles and cosmic symbolism that guided these ancient site selections. He explores the legendary centers of Druidic practice and the High Kings of Ireland, revealing how these locations embodied universal principles of balance and divine order.
This work offers modern readers insight into humanity's enduring quest to find meaning through connection with sacred places and cosmic patterns.
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Geographical myths
- ✓ Explore Landscape archaeology
- ✓ Explore Mythology, Celtic
- ✓ Explore Norse Mythology
- ✓ Explore Symbolic aspects
- ✓ Explore Sacred space
- ✓ Explore Celtic Mythology
- ✓ Explore Orientation (Religion)
Topics
Details
- Published
- 1994
- Publisher
- Thames and Hudson
- ISBN-10
- 0500016070
- Pages
- 184
- Language
- EN
- LC Classification
- BL980.G7 M53 1994
