Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Sedilia Definition

History and Architecture

Sedilia

From the Latin sedile, or seat. A sedilia is a canopied seat, or set of multiple seats, set into a recess in the south wall of the chancel, near the altar. The sedila were used by clergy as seating during services. One and two seat sedilia's are common, and in some caes there are three or more seats under the same extended canopy. The canopies in particular can be highly decorated, with elaborate carving, often of foliage, but just as frequently with heads of kings, queens, or religious figures.

Related: Altar   Canopy   Chancel  




National Trust

National Trust membership

National Trust membership

Free entry to National Trust properties throughout England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, plus discounted admission to National Trust for Scotland properties.

Membership details

About the National Trust


HISTORY CORNER
Name the mystery historic attraction
See larger image



This national celebration marked the centenery of the 1851 Great Exhibition



21 May, 1471

Henry VI killed at Tower of London

Henry's murder neatly coincided with the triumphant arrival in London of Edward of York (soon to become Edward IV)

This king confronted Wat Tyler during the Peasant's Revolt of 1381



Passionate about British Heritage!