SACRED SITE EXPERIENCE A Phenomenological Study

This is paper attempts to broaden the subject of sacred situ experience by presenting the findings of a study of the experiences of all exclusive male sacred Shrine in Greece, Mount Athos, also known as the Holy Mountain. The study involved a phenomenological approach undertaken through initiating conversations with visitors, participant observation and reviewing narratives on visitor books kept in monasteries. Front the analysis five core elements of authentic experience emerged, namely spiritual; cultural; environmental; secular; and educational. These elements were discussed in relation to the methodology adopted and the findings of past research.