Religion

For two decades in the 13th century, the papacy operated from this palace in central Italy, which served as the site of the first—and longest—papal election conclave in history.

This striking modernist mosque defies architectural conventions.

Once a year, these 'visitor deities' chase away evil spirits with a phallic-shaped staff.

A modest grave marks the final resting place of one of the world's most influential religious figures.

Mysterious texts covered in mystical symbols were found in caves at this site centuries ago.

Often referred to as one of the most haunted places in Morocco.

Once part of a living village, these buildings now house exhibits showcasing historical aspects of life in Ireland.

Set up in 1953, abandoned in 1978, and became a movie set in 2009.

A statue commemorating the perilous journey made by the monks who delivered the body of St. Cuthbert.

This 39-foot-tall version of a Hopi figure stands in Arizona.

This medieval village clings to a cliff in southwestern France.

Displaying religious art made almost exclusively in modern styles helps set this Buddhist temple apart from the myriad others in Bangkok.

This church in Old Goa was established by eight Portuguese Franciscan friars who landed there in 1517.

A seemingly out-of-place temple built on the spot where a mystic had a profound spiritual experience.

Every year, people come together to cover this mud-brick mosque with a fresh layer of earth.

This building from the Middle Ages was dedicated to the patron saint of Norway.

A remote, centuries-old underground mosque with a lunar aesthetic.