Shrine

Shrines are sacred holy spaces dedicated to specific deities, demi-gods, ancestors, heroes, martyrs, saints or similar figures of respect, enabling these to be venerated and worshipped. Shrines occur in many forms, but there are two effects that they possess: isolated shrines that are found in natural places, possessing great power, and wayside shrines, that are commonly placed along roads or within communities. High temples and cathedrals have spaces within their environs that conform to either of these effects.

While the importance of shrines began to fall out of favour in Europe in the 14th century, this cannot represent matters in the game world. Because gods actually exist, and because the practice of praying and sacrificing to a shrine has tangible effects, shrines have maintained their importance into the 17th century and continue to exist everywhere.

Isolated Shrines

Shrines that are found within natural surroundings possess an unusual capacity to strengthen the faith and practical strength of clerical magic. Those whose beliefs conform with the shrine gain two experience levels when casting magic within 60 ft. of the shrine's presence, after a 15 minute period of prayer. The shrine confers no new spells upon the cleric; only those spells the cleric was already able to cast are affected.

Therefore, with regards to spells of divination, or should a cleric seek sanctuary from enemies, especially holy isolated shrines serve a great purpose. They can be difficult to locate, and difficult to reach ... but once known, a cleric can return again and again to the place to advantage the great power offered there.