This document provides an overview of religious and artistic developments from prehistoric times through the medieval period in Europe and the Middle East. It discusses early fertility idols and cave paintings from the Paleolithic era. It then covers Neolithic crafts and megaliths. Egyptian, Aegean, Greek and Roman art is examined. Key Christian sites like Santa Costanza, San Vitale, Hagia Sophia are mentioned. The rise of Islam and iconic mosques in Damascus and Cordoba are summarized. Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals in Europe incorporating new styles and naturalism are briefly outlined.