Illustrated Architecture Dictionary

Sanctuary
SANK chew air ee

The immediate area around the principal altar

The chancel includes the sanctuary and area for clergy and choir; often separated by a screen or railing from the body of the church

See also: Church Vocabulary

---

Examples from Buffalo architecture

• Illustration above: St. Francis RC Church
  
  
• St. Louis RC Church
  
  
• Central Presbyterian Church
  
  
• Unitarian Universalist Church
  
  
• St. Joseph's Old Cathedral
  
  
• St. John the Evangelist RC Church