Nave vs. Narthex — What's the Difference?

The nave () is the central part of a church, stretching from the (normally western) main entrance or rear wall, to the transepts, or in a church without transepts, to the chancel. When a church contains side aisles, as in a basilica-type building, the strict definition of the term "nave" is restricted to the central aisle.

The narthex is an architectural element typical of early Christian and Byzantine basilicas and churches consisting of the entrance or lobby area, located at the west end of the nave, opposite the church's main altar. Traditionally the narthex was a part of the church building, but was not considered part of the church proper.

The central part of a church building, intended to accommodate most of the congregation. In traditional Western churches it is rectangular, separated from the chancel by a step or rail, and from adjacent aisles by pillars.

A portico or lobby of an early Christian or Byzantine church or basilica, originally separated from the nave by a railing or screen.

The hub of a wheel.

An entrance hall leading to the nave of a church.

The central part of a church, typically extending from the narthex to the chancel and flanked by aisles.

(architecture) A western vestibule leading to the nave in some Christian churches.

The hub of a wheel.

A tall umbelliferous plant (Ferula communis). See Giant fennel, under Fennel.

(architecture) The middle or body of a church, extending from the transepts to the principal entrances.

The portico in front of ancient churches; sometimes, the atrium or outer court surrounded by ambulatories; - used, generally, for any vestibule, lobby, or outer porch, leading to the nave of a church.

(architecture) The ground-level middle cavity of a barn.

Portico at the west end of an early Christian basilica or church

A hub of a wheel.

A vestibule leading to the nave of a church

(obsolete) The navel.

The block in the center of a wheel, from which the spokes radiate, and through which the axle passes; - called also hub or hob.

The navel.

The middle or body of a church, extending from the transepts to the principal entrances, or, if there are no transepts, from the choir to the principal entrance, but not including the aisles.

The central area of a church