Late Antiquity/Early Christian Vocabulary

Ambulatory

A circumnavigation space around the apse or choir in a church, allowing movement and access to chapels.

Apse

A semicircular recess at the end of a church, typically where the altar is located, often adorned with decorative elements.

Catacomb

An underground cemetery consisting of a complex network of tunnels and chambers, used for burying the dead, particularly by early Christians.

Clerestory

The upper part of a church's nave or hall, containing windows that allow light to enter and illuminate the interior.

Codex

An ancient manuscript text in book form, consisting of pages bound together, used by early Christians and other groups for various writings and scriptures.

Diptych

A two-part hinged tablet used for writing, often for recording official documents or as an altar piece in early Christian art.

Eucharist

The sacramental celebration of the Last Supper, where bread and wine are consecrated and consumed, commemorating Jesus Christ's sacrifice.

Illuminated Manuscript

A beautifully decorated handwritten book, often featuring elaborate illustrations and ornate lettering, used in early Christian and Medieval contexts.

Loculi

Niches within catacombs or tombs, used to hold bodies or urns, reflecting early Christian burial practices.

Lunette

A crescent-shaped architectural element often found above doors or windows, frequently used to display religious iconography in early Christian art.

Mausoleum

A large, stately building constructed as a tomb, often for distinguished individuals, commonly associated with early Christian and Roman funerary practices.

Narthex

Nave

The central part of a church building that extends from the entrance to the chancel, typically flanked by aisles and used for congregational seating.

Nimbus

A halo or radiant light surrounding a holy figure, often used in Christian art to signify divinity.

Orant

Tessera

A small piece of stone, glass, or other materials used in mosaic work to create images or patterns.

Torah

The central reference of the religious Judaic tradition, consisting of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible.

Transept

The part of a church that crosses the main axis, typically forming a cross shape in the architecture.

Vellum

A fine animal skin, usually from calf or lamb, treated for writing or printing.