Superstitions and beliefs in architecture : an examination of their impact on layouts and site utilisation

Abstract

"Superstitions" are beliefs in the existence or power of the supernatural and "beliefs" can be described as acceptance of these as truth. Both superstitions and beliefs are embedded in tradition and culture. Superstitions and beliefs have come down over the past hundreds of years and as such, they are considered to be ancient and popular."Whatever, view may be held to the real meaning of these things which some call superstitions and some would call poetry, I am sure at least of this, that no good is ever wasted, that even in the selfish and loosing attitude of man towards even a tree, there is some actual meaning, some real truth, some impulse which has in its own way, its own effect." Architectural symbols are visual and they have been used by many traditions to embody the truths which are related to their superstitions and beliefs. Such symbols are employed when other direct means fail to express the intended meaning. These symbols have developed a symbolic language of vertical and horizontal lines, dots and circles. Therefore, this visual art architecture incorporates the superstitions and beliefs of a society in its evolution.