Narthex

The narthex, also known as a galilee, is a porch or vestibule at the opposite end of a Christian church to the altar, separated from the naveCentral part of a church, used by the laiety..^[1][a]Christian churches are usually laid out with the altar at the eastern end. The term is sometimes used more loosely to refer to the western part of the nave.^[2]

Although part of the church building, the narthex was considered less sacred than the church proper, and thus allowed those ineligible for admittance into the general congregation, particularly catechumensSomeone undergoing instruction in preparation for their baptism into the Christian church. and penitents, to observe and take part in the service.^[1]

In later use the narthex was often reserved for women, or was a place where monks were allowed to meet their female relatives.^[2]

It was the custom in villagesSmall rural collection of buildings with a church. in England from the 17th to the late 19th century, for parishioners to sit in the church porch on St Mark’s EveDay before the Feast Day of St Mark, 25 April, when watchers could see the wraiths of those destined to die during the year.. Those sitting had to keep silent between the bell tolling at 11:00 pm until it struck again at 1:00 am. It was said that the wraithsSpectral appearance of someone still alive, usually considered to be a sign of that person's imminent death. of those destined to die during the year would be seen passing into the church.^[3]