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Raised space in front of the iconostasis reserved for the choir, the readers and the assisting priests during the church service. Derived from the Greek kleros, meaning “lot,” because those who read ...
Sponsor or provider of funds for the construction or reconstruction of an Orthodox monastery, or for the painting of icons, frescoes and other works of art. Derived from the Greek ktitor, meaning “fo...
Citadel or fortified compound found in many historical Russian cities, such as Moscow, Novgorod, Pskov and Smolensk.
Form of monasticism in which monks pursue separate lives of private prayer and asceticism, only meeting on major feast days. Derived from the Greek idios (“particular”) and rhythmos (“rule” or “disci...
Liturgical book containing the portions of the Gospels read during Mass or in the public offices of the Church.
Settlement where a hermit or a small group of monks live in seclusion from the world. Traditionally located in caves and huts, often in the desert or woods, but sometimes adjoining a cenobitic monast...
Superstructure of mouldings and bands which lie horizontally above columns, resting on their capitals. Derived from the Italian intavolatura, formed from in (“in”) and tavola (“table”).
Form of monasticism which involves living in seclusion from society, whether in isolated cells or in a natural cave or special construction in a desert or forest. Derived from the Greek eremos, meani...
Block of bedchambers or cells in a monastery. Derived from the Old French word dortour, meaning dormitory.
Stone chamber or vault beneath the floor of a church. Acts as a chapel or burial vault, often containing sarcophagi, coffins or relics. Derived from the Greek krypte, meaning “concealed” or “private....