What is the difference between prehistoric architecture and religious architecture?

Answer 1

For a few reasons that I am aware of, this question doesn't entirely make sense. First of all, just within the realm of "religious architecture" there is a vast diversity of architecture. It depends on what religion, what sub-branch of religion, geographic location, the era in which it was built, etc. For example, a modern day evangelist "arena" in suburban Atlanta is religious architecture - but so are the great pyramids in Giza, Egypt from thousands of years ago.

As for prehistoric 'architecture', some of it was religious in nature and some served no other purpose but temporary shelter.

Perhaps a separate question is the technical difference between "pre-history" and "pre-civilization". I am not sure if these are the same or not. But it may be helpful for you to understand that the concept of architecture did not develop until civilizations developed.

Primitive human beings were hunter/gatherers. that is - they constantly roamed the land in search of food to stay alive. As agriculture slowly emerged over time, this allowed humans to stay put in one place and still have adequate diet. Once humans were able to stay put and have dependable, reliable food source - they had the luxury of branching out into other endeavors - including how best to erect shelters.

Both before and after this, it is believed humans had religious practices in some form.