Narthex
|
|
Gardner’s Art Through the Ages (eighth edition) was published in 1986. It was published by Harcourt Brace Jovanovich and written by Horst de la Croix and Richard G. Tansey.
It defines a narthex as: A porch or vestibule of a church, generally colonnaded or arcaded and preceding the nave.
A narthex is similar to a vestibule, but a vestibule is generally a passageway between the outside and inside of the building, while a narthex is a passageway that specifically leads towards the nave, particularly in early Christian and Byzantine basilicas and churches.
Its purpose was to provide a waiting area for those deemed unworthy (such as penitents) of entry to - or participation in - the service. Baptismal fonts were often placed in the narthex, so those who were not yet baptised could enter the nave after the sacrament was performed.
In modern churches, a narthex is an antechamber or large porch.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The teacher, architectural technologist and mum offers her insights.
Cable management materials shortage
Careful planning needed as supply chain issues continue.
The sensitive conversion of a neglected Cornwall structure.
Plan stresses local involvement in city, town and village development.
Carbon capture technology update
Environment Agency publishes BAT guidance.
C02nstruct Zero Performance Framework published
CLC guidance outlines carbon reduction priorities.
Bridge hopping highlights around the UK
Making the most of a staycation.
Organisation urges G20 to revisit wind energy.
The historian spent much of his life compiling architectural resources.
Thermal imaging and net zero targets
How technology can expose efficiency levels in existing buildings.
The garden heritage of Oxford and Cambridge. Book reviews.
Building capacity to better manage heritage.