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<p>This paper explores the emerging field of sacred geology, which examines the intersection of geo-objects, cultural myths, and spiritual beliefs to promote geoconservation and geotourism. Sacred geology builds on geomythology—a discipline pioneered by Dorothy Vitaliano—those studies how ancient myths preserve geological observations through symbolic narratives. By integrating Traditional Geological Knowledge (TGK), religious teachings, and modern scientific perspectives, sacred geology seeks to foster a holistic approach to protecting geoheritage while respecting cultural and spiritual values. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, including ethnographic fieldwork, interviews with religious leaders, and surveys of 140 participants in Iran, to assess public perceptions of geo-mytho-sites. Findings reveal strong cultural and religious connections to geological landscapes, such as Mount Damavand and the Lut Desert, where myths and local beliefs have historically safeguarded these sites. The “Geo-Mythos Diagram” is introduced as a conceptual framework to map community engagement levels, highlighting the potential for sacred geology to bridge scientific and spiritual worldviews. Key themes include the role of myths in explaining geological phenomena, the sanctification of natural features, and the educational value of integrating spiritual narratives into geoconservation strategies. The paper argues that sacred geology, while not conflating myth with scientific truth, offers a pragmatic tool for engaging communities in sustainable geoheritage management. By leveraging cultural reverence for geosites, sacred geology aims to enhance public awareness, foster geotourism, and align conservation efforts with indigenous and religious values. The study concludes that sacred geology represents a transformative approach to geodiversity preservation, one that harmonizes scientific inquiry with cultural spirituality. It calls for further interdisciplinary collaboration to expand this framework globally, ensuring the protection of geoheritage through culturally resonant and ethically grounded practices.</p>

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Sacred Geology and Understanding of Geological Objects: Geo-Mytho-Sites in Spiritual Teachings

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年2月4日

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  • Kamal Taheri,
  • Nabil Khelifi,
  • Chris Groves

摘要

This paper explores the emerging field of sacred geology, which examines the intersection of geo-objects, cultural myths, and spiritual beliefs to promote geoconservation and geotourism. Sacred geology builds on geomythology—a discipline pioneered by Dorothy Vitaliano—those studies how ancient myths preserve geological observations through symbolic narratives. By integrating Traditional Geological Knowledge (TGK), religious teachings, and modern scientific perspectives, sacred geology seeks to foster a holistic approach to protecting geoheritage while respecting cultural and spiritual values. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, including ethnographic fieldwork, interviews with religious leaders, and surveys of 140 participants in Iran, to assess public perceptions of geo-mytho-sites. Findings reveal strong cultural and religious connections to geological landscapes, such as Mount Damavand and the Lut Desert, where myths and local beliefs have historically safeguarded these sites. The “Geo-Mythos Diagram” is introduced as a conceptual framework to map community engagement levels, highlighting the potential for sacred geology to bridge scientific and spiritual worldviews. Key themes include the role of myths in explaining geological phenomena, the sanctification of natural features, and the educational value of integrating spiritual narratives into geoconservation strategies. The paper argues that sacred geology, while not conflating myth with scientific truth, offers a pragmatic tool for engaging communities in sustainable geoheritage management. By leveraging cultural reverence for geosites, sacred geology aims to enhance public awareness, foster geotourism, and align conservation efforts with indigenous and religious values. The study concludes that sacred geology represents a transformative approach to geodiversity preservation, one that harmonizes scientific inquiry with cultural spirituality. It calls for further interdisciplinary collaboration to expand this framework globally, ensuring the protection of geoheritage through culturally resonant and ethically grounded practices.