Medieval European Pilgrimage part 2: cities and sanctuaries

About this course

The course examines how pilgrimage destinations developed across medieval Europe and how saints, relics, miracles, shrine churches and sacred spaces shaped the pilgrim experience. Destinations include Assisi, Santiago de Compostela, Bury St Edmunds and Canterbury, with attention to pilgrimage’s effects on towns and economies. Teaching combines illustrated lectures, maps, images of churches and shrines, group discussion and extracts from contemporary accounts. Participants compare different pilgrimage destinations and consider their religious, cultural and economic roles.

What you'll learn

• Identify significant medieval European pilgrimage cities and explain their importance
• Explain the role of saints’ cults, relics and miracles in pilgrimage
• Describe how pilgrimage influenced medieval towns and economies
• Discuss the experiences of pilgrims visiting shrine cities
• Compare the development and significance of different pilgrimage destinations

Is this course right for you?

This introductory course is intended for anyone interested in medieval history and does not require prior knowledge. Participation involves listening to illustrated lectures, examining visual and written sources, and contributing to group discussion. It can be taken independently or after Part 1.

• No previous knowledge is required
• Suitable for learners interested in medieval history
• Includes group discussion alongside lecture-based teaching
• May be taken independently or after Part 1

Before you go

• Handouts are provided.
• A notebook and pen may be brought for note-taking.
• Optional reading may be recommended, but there is no compulsory homework.