Medieval European Pilgrimage part 2: cities and sanctuaries

An illustrated exploration of major medieval pilgrimage cities and shrines, examining sacred spaces, saints’ cults and the experiences of pilgrims travelling to some of Europe’s most famous sanctuaries.

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  • Start Date: 28 Oct 2026
    End Date: 25 Nov 2026
    Wed (Daytime): 15:00 - 17:00
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 5 sessions (over 5 weeks)
    Course Code: HEH103
    Full fee £159.00 Senior fee £127.00 Concession £103.00
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In stock
SKU
246181
Full fee £159.00 Senior fee £127.00 Concession £103.00

What is the course about?

Pilgrimage was central to medieval religious life and was undertaken by people from every level of society. This illustrated course explores the development of important European pilgrimage cities and sanctuaries and examines how they functioned as religious, economic and cultural centres.

Each session focuses on a different destination, exploring the saint, shrine, setting and the pilgrim experience.

What will we cover?

  • The growth of pilgrimage centres in medieval Europe

  • The role of saints, relics and miracles

  • The development of shrine churches and sacred spaces

  • Pilgrimage to Assisi

  • Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela

  • Pilgrimage to Bury St Edmunds

  • Pilgrimage to Canterbury

  • The social and economic impact of pilgrimage cities

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

  • Identify major European pilgrimage cities and their significance

  • Explain the importance of saints’ cults and relics

  • Describe how pilgrimage shaped medieval towns and economies

  • Discuss the experience of pilgrims visiting shrine cities

  • Compare different pilgrimage destinations

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an introductory course suitable for all with an interest in medieval history. No prior knowledge is required. It may be taken independently or after Part 1.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Teaching will include illustrated lectures, maps, images of churches and shrines, and group discussion. Extracts from contemporary accounts may be shared.

There is no compulsory homework, though optional reading may be recommended.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no additional costs. Handouts will be provided. Please bring a notebook and pen if you wish to take notes.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

HEH85The medieval history of Sicily 1 : the Mediterranean Crucible.

Michael Bloomfield
We’re sorry. We don’t have a bio ready for the tutor of this class at the moment, but we’re working on it! Watch this space.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.