In current times of strife, whether it be from climate change, the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, or the scarcity of resources in some areas of the world, discontent and discouragement grips people’s hearts, especially towards the future of humanity. Discouragement, however, can be a driving force for positive change, and optimism, for it is through struggle and conflict does humanity evolve. Ours is a species of continual struggle, and the ability to overcome struggles is an innate human capability.

To strive towards excellence, one needs an ideal, an exemplar to glean inspiration from, that guides the way forward. In the case of Utopia, we only need to look to history and be inspired. Our ancestors not too long ago manifested their utopian visions in sacred architectural marvels, that stand prestigious and everlasting throughout the generations. An intricate dance of visuals, construction, and even spirituality through acoustics & sound design, instills an inspirational emotion through anyone stepping foot into these historical wonders. It becomes instantly apparent that our ancestors were reaching for the heavens in creating these historical monuments, in their attempts to create a perfect utopia.

IEREK is organizing the 3rd international conference on “Utopian and Sacred Architecture Studies” in collaboration with the University of Pisa, Italy, a city that is well-known for its historically impressive architectural identity.

The utopian elements within the city’s buildings shine through and enlighten all those who gaze upon them. Exemplars of sacred architecture such as the Pisa Cathedral, which features Lombard-Emilian, Byzantine, and Islamic architectural styles, and the wondrously gothic Camposanto Monumentale, stand tall through the passage of time, inspiring modern architects and attracting tourists from around the globe.

This conference’s main aim is to explore the theories and practices stimulated over the last five centuries in a wide range of areas of thought, historiography, political sciences, social sciences, literary and art studies, social activism, and visualization of possible worlds. Join us, and attain the optimal opportunity to address the disputations that surround Utopia and its successors from its origin to our present age, and explore the impact of the utopian religious, and cultural ideals.