Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Nave Definition

History and Architecture


The west end of a church. where the congregation sits (in modern times) or stood (in the medieval period). The nave is usually the largest part of a church, and may be flanked by one or more parallel aisles. In most churches the east end of the nave terminates in an arch separating it from a chancel, where the high altar stands. In most churches there is a lectern and pulpit at the east end of the nave and a font near the west end.

Related: Altar   Arch   Chancel   Font   Lectern   Pulpit  

Attraction search

English Heritage

English Heritage membership

English Heritage membership


Membership details

About English Heritage

Name the mystery historic attraction
See larger image

This soldier and war hero founded the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides

19 July, 1545

Mary Rose sinks off Portsmouth



Passionate about British Heritage!