Apse

An apse is a special part found in buildings, especially churches. It is a curved, semicircular area that curves upward and is often covered by a rounded ceiling called a vault or a semi-dome.

In many important Christian churches from the Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, the apse is located at the east end of the building. This is where the altar is placed, and it is very important in religious ceremonies. Even though the roof above the apse might be flat or slanted, the curved wall underneath makes the space feel special and grand.

Smaller apses can also be found in other parts of buildings, like in small shrines, adding beauty to the design.

Definition

An apse is a curved, semicircular space, often with a rounded ceiling. In churches, cathedrals, and basilicas, the apse is usually at the end of the choir or sanctuary. Smaller apses can also be found in other parts of a church, especially to hold special items or places to remember saints.

Main article: Cathedral
Main articles: Choir, Sanctuary
Further information: Reliquaries, Shrines

History

The domed apse became a common part of church designs in the early Christian times. It marks the important end of the church where the altar is placed.

Related features

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the south apse is called the diaconicon and the north apse the prothesis.

The chancel (or sanctuary) is the area directly to the east of the choir. It has the high altar and is usually only for clergy.

Semi-circular choirs started in the East. They were later used in France around 470. By the 13th century, small apse chapels were added around the outside. This formed what is called a chevet.