at journey’s end
a superimposition of past and present
At land’s end, one arrives to a place of contemplation. Sublime yet serene, the intervention straddles the threshold of land and sea, reaching out from the cliffs of Cape Espichel and towards the ocean -- an infinite beyond. Here, ancient meets modern, where the dialogue between the two is apparent and ongoing. Modern understands, respects, and remembers ancient.
When, or if, one feels compelled to, they may enter the ruins of centuries past. Submerging below, into the core of the fortress, one feels the walls of history embracing and enveloping them. Once inside, one is immersed in a site acutely aware of its antiquity, allowing for a deeply intimate and profound exploration that increases in its sacred nature as one penetrates further into its heart.
Land and sea are expressed as formal elements within the monastery. The dormitories and main chapel are located deep within the earth, creating a oneness with the site’s history. On the exterior, a large, occupiable cantilever extends over the water, acting as an outdoor meditation platform.
Isolated from our rapid, high-paced society, this intervention respects the notions of protection and safety, and rewards pilgrims with solitude and distinct opportunities for reflection along their pilgrimage. The title site monastery is awarded to the structure through this consideration and attention to various levels of intimacy.
When, or if, one feels compelled to, they may enter the ruins of centuries past. Submerging below, into the core of the fortress, one feels the walls of history embracing and enveloping them. Once inside, one is immersed in a site acutely aware of its antiquity, allowing for a deeply intimate and profound exploration that increases in its sacred nature as one penetrates further into its heart.
Land and sea are expressed as formal elements within the monastery. The dormitories and main chapel are located deep within the earth, creating a oneness with the site’s history. On the exterior, a large, occupiable cantilever extends over the water, acting as an outdoor meditation platform.
Isolated from our rapid, high-paced society, this intervention respects the notions of protection and safety, and rewards pilgrims with solitude and distinct opportunities for reflection along their pilgrimage. The title site monastery is awarded to the structure through this consideration and attention to various levels of intimacy.
project information
location: cabo espichel, portugal
date: 2020
type: monastery, competition, independent inquiry
credits
project team: jacob t. middleton, alexander noaks
location: cabo espichel, portugal
date: 2020
type: monastery, competition, independent inquiry
credits
project team: jacob t. middleton, alexander noaks
entry
meditation / view
