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. This shape is sometimes called an exedra.

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 significant 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 and importance to the design.

Definition

An apse is a semicircular recess, often covered with a rounded vault. In churches, cathedrals, and basilicas, the apse is usually found at the end of the choir or sanctuary. Smaller apses can also be built in other parts of a church, especially to hold reliquaries or shrines for saints.

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

History

The domed apse became a regular feature in church designs during the early Christian period. It was used to mark the important end of the church where the altar is placed.

Related features

In the Eastern Orthodox Church tradition, 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, containing the high altar. This special area is usually only for clergy.

Semi-circular choirs were first developed in the East and later used in France around 470. By the 13th century, these choirs were joined by small apse chapels placed around the outside, forming what is called a chevet.