Terribilis est locus iste

 Actually, the Latin phrase “Terribilis est locus iste” is a biblical text commonly employed as a cantus firmus throughout many Renaissance texts. From Gen 28:17, it translates to “Awesome is this place.” You’ll see it in motifs dealing with the dedication of cathedrals, as in Dufay’s 1436 “Nuper Rosarum Flores” composed for the consecration of Brunelleschi’s dome in Florence.

Also available via google translate, the Latin phrase terribilis est locus iste is loaded with meaning. It’s also included in one of my favorite motets of all time, Nuper Rosarum Flores. Dufay gets to me every time. 🤷🏼‍♂️

But – this place is awesome, and I love it here.

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The Rev. Kenneth Allen