Sanctuary

Sanctuary denotes the exemption from pursuit and legal process enjoyed by certain spots or buildings, notably churches. The Hebrews had their cities of refuge, some heathen temples had right of sanctuary, and from the time of Constantine certain churches were thus privileged. The rights were modified by varying conditions, and seem to have originated in the desire to insure against an anticipation of the result of judicial process. A Papal Bull was necessary generally to constitute, but the king's consent was in some cases enough. Sanctuary from debt was afforded by certain places in England till 8 & 9 William IV., general sanctuary having been abolished by 21 Jac. 1. Holyrood with its precincts still gives immunity from debt.