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Aisle & Apse Read the building

Features / Layout

Layout

Crossing

The square where the nave, the transepts and the eastern arm meet. It is often crowned by a tower or a dome.

Where to look
Stand where the transept arms open on either side; look up for a tower lantern or dome.
Styles
On the drawings
Plan

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Plan of a cross-shaped building from the west front (left) to the apse (right). Each label links to its feature. W E NarthexAisleTranseptAmbulatoryWest frontNaveArcade (piers)CrossingChoirApseChapels
PlanCrossing is highlighted.