noun
- plural of narthex; vestibules or entrance halls in early Christian churches, typically located at the western end of the building
Usage: architectural; ecclesiastical
Examples
- The ancient basilicas featured elaborate narthexes where catechumens would gather.
- Many Byzantine churches had narthexes that served as gathering spaces before worship.
- The restoration project focused on preserving the original narthexes of the cathedral.
- Pilgrims would often wait in the narthexes before entering the main sanctuary.
- The architect studied the design of medieval narthexes for the new church plans.
- These narthexes contained beautiful mosaics depicting biblical scenes.