The 23rd IPPA Congress
The 23rd IPPA Congress
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1 Ministry of Antiquities and Tourism, Egypt
2 Indian Institute of Heritage
The story of human civilisation is profoundly shaped by diverse belief systems that have influenced cultures, social structures, and worldviews across time. From early animistic traditions honouring the forces of nature to the organised polytheistic religions of ancient civilisations, spiritual expression has continually evolved. As societies transitioned from mobility to settlement, religious life became more structured, giving rise to sacred architecture, formalised rituals, and enduring institutions. New spiritual movements and cults also emerged, reflecting changing cultural, political, and psychological needs. The Asia-Pacific, home to some of the world’s oldest and most diverse religious traditions offers a unique archaeological landscape where belief systems are preserved in both tangible and intangible heritage. Sacred monuments, ritual artefacts, festivals, oral traditions, and artistic expressions reveal deep continuities between past and present, underscoring the role of faith in shaping cultural identity. This panel invites papers on the sacred archaeologies of the Asia-Pacific, including the evolution of rituals, religious customs, cults, symbolism, sacred spaces, material culture, art, architecture, and spiritual movements. Contributions examining religious exchange and cross-cultural influences between Asia and other regions are also welcome. Together, these studies will explore how belief systems have shaped the archaeological record and continue to define cultural landscapes today.