Sacred Isles: Islands as Sites of Religious, Spiritual or Supernatural Exception

The articles in this inaugural publication of the periodic section on ‘Sacred isles: Islands as sites of religious, spiritual or supernatural exception’ in Folk, Knowledge, Place examines the complex interplay between sacred isles, geography and human experience. Through empirical research, theoretical analysis and comparative studies, the papers contribute to island studies by revealing the layers of meaning embedded in island landscapes and their roles in spiritual and cultural life. The three articles in the present issue discuss diverse locations, covering distinct small island settings with sacred connections in England (St Michael’s Mount), Guernsey (Lihou) and the river islands of Guangzhou in China. Drawing from a rich body of scholarly work across island studies, folklore studies, religious studies and geography, this periodic section foregrounds how the inherent spatial characteristics of islands—such as isolation, defined coastlines and unique environmental conditions—imbue them with mystique and sanctity. Such attributes foster a heightened sense of space and intimacy with the environment and enhance their appeal as sacred sites. While highlighting how islands can embody cultural heritage and religious devotion, the articles also explain some of the ways sacred isles can transcend island space, moving between and across islands and related revered settings where a consideration of sacred interconnections becomes necessary for comprehending islands on their own terms.