Pilgrimage is a journey that goes beyond mere travel; it's a profound quest for spiritual growth, self-discovery, and connection. A new book by Kathryn Hurlock explores this theme.

Every year, millions of people from diverse cultures and backgrounds embark on pilgrimages, seeking to deepen their faith, find solace, and gain a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them. But the significance of pilgrimage extends far beyond personal transformation. Having researched them for the best part of twenty years, what has struck me is that they have a much wider impact on the world than many people realise. Pilgrimages have played a crucial role in shaping societies, fostering cultural exchange, and promoting peace and understanding among different communities.

From the ancient streets of Jerusalem to the sacred waters of Amritsar, the healing centre of Lourdes, the spiritual heights of Bear Butte, and the political shrines of Buenos Aires, pilgrimage places have left an indelible mark on our world's history and heritage. In writing Holy Places, I wanted to highlight the profound significance of pilgrimages and the places they focus on. Pilgrimages are not just about reaching a destination; they are about the experiences, challenges, and revelations encountered along the way. They have the power to unite people across boundaries, bridging gaps between different cultures and beliefs. My hope is that this book will illuminate the importance of pilgrimage and its enduring influence on our world. I wrote it to share the rich tapestry of pilgrimage with a wider audience, to celebrate its historical and cultural significance, and to reconsider the impact of pilgrimage.

Books can be pre-ordered from: https://profilebooks.com/work/holy-places/

It will also be available in good bookshops from 6th March.

Kathryn joined Manchester Metropolitan in 2008, having completed her PhD in Medieval History at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth. Her early research was into the medieval history of Wales and the crusading movement up to 1291 and then more broadly British and Irish connections to the crusading movement up to c.1600. She then turned her research interest to pilgrimage, focussing on St Winefride’s Well in North Wales, Britain’s oldest continually resorted-to pilgrimage site, the role of rail travel in modern pilgrimage, and the connection between war, veterans, and pilgrimage activity.