An Archaeological History of Hermitages and Eremitic Communities in Medieval Britain and Beyond

This book explores the archaeological history of hermitages and eremitic communities, focusing on medieval Britain and offering insights into their spiritual significance and architectural forms.

This book presents a detailed archaeological history of hermitages and eremitic communities, focusing on significant examples and case studies. While it primarily emphasizes the British medieval period, it also situates this within a broader comparative context. By exploring various hermitages, the book sheds light on their architectural styles, spatial arrangements, locations, and the religious practices that defined these unique communities.

Throughout the medieval era, numerous hermitages and eremitic communities have been documented, yet a comprehensive archaeological study has been lacking until now. This richly illustrated work delves into the diverse forms of hermitages and introduces readers to the environments in which they existed. It aims to provide insight into a largely forgotten aspect of medieval spirituality and religious life, offering a unique perspective on the experiences of hermits.

The book covers a wide range of related themes, including the earliest archaeological evidence of hermits in regions such as India, China, and East Asia, as well as pre-Christian and early Christian desert hermitages. Topics such as cave hermitages, the lives of saints and missionary hermits, medieval mysticism, and the evolution of hermitic life into contemporary society are also examined. An Archaeological History of Hermitages and Eremitic Communities in Medieval Britain and Beyond is designed to engage academics, students, and general readers with interests in archaeology, history, and spirituality.