Paper short abstract:

This paper will discuss these how the visions and ideas of the promoters of new sacred sites in Latvia shaped the development of these sites, their popularity and religious experiences reported by visitors.

Paper long abstract:

Since the late 1980’ies, several new sacred sites have appeared in the rural areas in Latvia. All are located in rural areas and feature altered landscapes (i.e. uncovered stone piles, installation of artistic elements or buildings), attract numerous visitors and are promoted by individuals who are, in most cases, published authors. These sites are not linked to any organized religion; however, the connected narratives contain references to religious traditions and visitors have reported transformative and/or communicative spiritual experiences. Three basic types of new shrines could be identified. Shrines of the first type are linked to the Latvian nationalist mythology – the connected narratives refer to the past glory and Latvia’s exceptional place in the world. Other group of sites are oriented towards visitors’ individual spiritual growth and accomplishment and are integrated into broader networks of contemporary alternative spiritualities. The third type of smaller shrines are found on private properties and are connected to the family history and local identity.

They have been promoted by individuals who are, in most cases, authors of published books and articles available in print or on their websites. This paper will discuss these publications and how the visions and main ideas of Ojārs Ozoliņš (Bitarīnkalns in the Vijciems parish), Ivars Vīks and Ilze Jansone (Pokaiņi sacred grove), Elvita Rudzāte (Self-awareness and harmonization park in Sigulda) and Ēriks Delpers (Hill of Christ the King in Aglona) shaped the development of these sites, their popularity and religious experiences reported by visitors.