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Exploring the history of organized religion in Europe, this overview covers the transition from polytheistic traditions to the dominance of Christianity, the power of the medieval Church, the Crusades, the Inquisition, the Protestant Reformation, the Enlightenment's impact on secularization, and the diverse contemporary religious scene.
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Religious structures such as megaliths and burial mounds emerged during the Neolithic era
Mediterranean Civilizations
Polytheistic religions centered around a pantheon of gods and were integral to the social and political fabric of these societies
Celtic and Germanic Religions
The spread of these polytheistic religions occurred in parallel in northern Europe
Christianity grew in influence after Emperor Constantine's Edict of Milan in 313 CE, which granted religious tolerance to Christians
Other belief systems were often branded as pagan or heretical in the face of Christianity's rise
Gregorian Reforms
The eleventh-century reforms aimed to purify the Church and consolidate its power
Combatting Heresy
The Church launched military campaigns and tribunals, such as the Crusades and the Inquisition, to maintain Christian orthodoxy and extend its influence
The Crusades had profound impacts on European and Middle Eastern societies, including the persecution of Jews and Muslims
Luther's challenge to Catholic Church doctrines and practices sparked the Protestant Reformation
The Reformation resulted in the establishment of various Protestant denominations and a reconfiguration of religious and political power in Europe
The Catholic Church implemented reforms through the Council of Trent to address abuses and reaffirm Catholic doctrine
The Enlightenment fostered a new intellectual climate that emphasized reason and skepticism of traditional authority, leading to the rise of Deism
Christianity
Christianity is still the most prevalent religion in Europe, with a majority of Europeans identifying with various Christian denominations
Islam
Islam is the second-largest religion in Europe, largely due to immigration from predominantly Muslim countries
Non-Religious and Secular Trends
A substantial portion of Europeans identify as non-religious, agnostic, or atheist, reflecting the secular trend
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Significance of megaliths and burial mounds
Indicate early ritualistic practices in Neolithic Europe.
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Characteristics of Mediterranean ancient religions
Polytheistic, centered on gods' pantheon, intertwined with society and politics.
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Impact of Edict of Milan on Christianity
313 CE decree by Constantine granting religious tolerance, pivotal for Christian growth.
