What circumambulation means in pilgrimage traditions—from India and Japan to Mecca and Ireland—and how walking in circles shapes ritual, space, and meaning

Hindus believe that traveling to sacred places helps them get closer to divinity, cleanse their sins and attain moksha, or spiritual liberation

Christian pilgrimages arose spontaneously in the early centuries as believers visited the places associated with the life and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth

Some cities shine with a unique intensity – cities considered holy, where the streets seem to echo with countless prayers. But what elevates a city to this sacred status?

The first temple in Jerusalem was built during the reign of Solomon. From then on, people made regular pilgrimages to offer sacrifices to God at his altars.