plan

nave

Area between the transept and the porch of the cathedral where the congregation gathers.

crossing

Area located at the crossing of the transept and the nave of the cathedral.

choir

Area just beyond the transept where the clergy stand during the liturgy.

apse

Vaulted or polygonal area forming the end of the choir where the high altar is usually located.

chevet

Semicircular area at the back of the cathedral that includes the apse and the ambulatory.

porch

Part of a cathedral’s façade where the doors open; it can vary in depth.

aisle

Lateral nave, usually separated from the main nave by a row of columns.

transept

Transverse area separating the choir from the nave and forming the arms of a cross.

ambulatory

Gallery that makes it possible to walk around the cathedral’s choir, starting from the transept.

apsidiole

Small lateral chapel arranged in a semicircle behind the choir surrounding the apse.

Lady chapel

Chapel located beyond the walls at the back of the cathedral, in the axis of the nave.