Description
“The present publication… shows convincingly that there are many aspects of Maltese cutlure that are largely unkown, and worse still, are susceptible to loss. Furthermore, it demonstrates that the information it contains has great potential. It does not only help to make this information more properly valued, but may even help revive lost and ancient traditions.”
Prof Carmel Cassar
Institute for Tourism, Travel and Culture, University of Malta
Prof. Everaldo Attard
Institute of Earth Systems, University of Malta
“Contemporary life provides little refuge for the genuine contemplation needed to seek, build , and maintain peace. These rich and accessible narratives describe the diverse life-worlds of cloistered spaces where such reflection is at the heart of community life, past and present. In some moments bustling with activity , while in others serenely calm, the religious communities inhabiting these spaces have always turned to nature to sustain themselves materially and spiritually. From these narratives, we come to appreciate how the built environments of cloistered spaces create intimate and energizing connection to the natural world. The bench looking out over the citrus grove or the portico where bird songs echo invite deep individual reflection, even in the midst of vibrant community life. The vulnerability of these precious spaces, threatened by abandonment, overgrowth, commercial use, and erosion, should prompt in readers new commitment to preserve spaces where repose in proximity to nature provides a path to peace.”
Prof Susan F. Hirsch
School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution
George Mason University