The Course will provide general information on some of the World’s Religions in a comparative and interreligious perspective with Christianity (history, conceptual framework, beliefs). In particular the following points will be dealt with:  1. The concept of Religion in general and in the context of each culture examined. 2. What is Religion? 3. How can we study it and what type of facts are to be considered as ‘religious’? 4. Main Methods of study adopted: Historical, Phenomenological, Sociological Approach. 5. Five of the World’s Great Religions. Particular attention will be given to some Asian Religions such as the Religions of the Indian Subcontinent and the Chinese Religions. 6. Whether and How it is possible to encourage and encounter and to foster a dialogue between Christianity and these Religions. The Lectures will be accompanied by readings from the main Scriptures of every Religion taken into consideration as well as illustrations of relevant artistic topics (Temples, Deities, Mythology, Symbols).