The symbolism of sacred space.

Abstract This chapter discusses the development and maintenance of sacred spaces and places as defined by institutionalized religion, and how these spaces and places are contested yet also a meeting ground for cross-cultural understanding. The chapter begins by briefly summarizing some of the academic shifts that have taken place over the past few decades regarding the study of sacred space. It then turns to discuss the production and contestation of sacred space with an emphasis on sacred spaces as 'places in motion', before examining how sacred spaces are being used by religious groups for outreach and to promote cross-cultural understanding.