Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Altar Definition

History and Architecture

Altar

The holiest part of a church. In the medieval period the altar was a table or rectangular slab made of stone or marble, often set upon a raised step. After the Reformation the stone altars were replaced by wooden communion tables.




English Heritage

English Heritage membership

English Heritage membership

Free entry to English Heritage properties throughout England, plus discounted admission to Historic Scotland and Cadw properties in Scotland and Wales.

Membership details

About English Heritage


HISTORY CORNER
Name the mystery historic attraction
See larger image



This cleric and scholar served as tutor to the young Princess Elizabeth, later Elizabeth I



19 May, 1536

Anne Boleyn beheaded

Queen Anne was executed on Tower Green, saving her the spectacle of a more public execution.

This king rebuilt Westminster Abbey as a shrine to Edward the Confessor



Passionate about British Heritage!