Where is the altar in a Gothic cathedral?
Where is the altar in a Gothic cathedral? The east end of the building was always where the altar was placed. They believed that since the original Garden of Eden was east of Europe, the altar should be in the east.
Why do Gothic cathedrals face east?
Believing in a second glorious coming of Jesus Christ, the Christians saw the sunrise as a symbol of resurrection and therefore oriented the sanctuaries Eastwards. Here we will consider the orientation of the gothic cathedrals in France. We will see that an eastward orientation of the apse is a rule.
What is the entrance to a Gothic church called?
The entrance hall or narthex opens into the nave, the main worship area of the church. The nave is flanked by side aisles. The nave and transepts intersect at the crossing, which is often topped by a steeple.
What is the layout of a Gothic church?
The floor plan of a Gothic cathedral is typically laid out in the shape of a cross, which distinguishes it from early church designs that followed the Roman basilica plan. Transepts intersect the main axis of the church to form the cross. The main entrance traditionally faced west and is known as the West Door.