Exonarthex

Origin

From - + narthex.

Full definition of exonarthex

Noun

1. (architecture, Christianity) The space anterior to the narthex of a church, sometimes roofed-over as with a porch, but more often an enclosed courtyard; in antiquity, the courtyard where catechumens were permitted to be close to the Eucharist, but forbidden to see it celebrated.

Usage notes

Narthex is alive and well in English. Exonarthex is a recent borrowing into architectural nomenclature. The practices of the early Church that required an exonarthex were abandoned early, but the architectural bits lived on. This is demonstrated in modern terms by St. Peter's Square in Rome, which constitutes the grandest exonarthex of all; the chief officiant (i.e., the pope) comes out and reveals all the mysteries formerly celebrated within.