92. CATHEDRAL OF FREIBURG-IM-BREISGAU (GRAND-DUCHY OF BADEN). TOWER
Choirs.—In Christian churches the choir[31] proper was an institution long before the chapels.[32]
[31] L' Architecture Romane, by Ed. Corroyer; Paris, Maison Quantin, 1888.
[32] Encyclopédie de l'Architecture et de la Construction, article "Chœur-Chapelle," by Ed. Corroyer.
93. ANTWERP CATHEDRAL
At the extremity of the basilica, in the centre of the chalcidium or transept which gave to the basilican plan the form of a T or Tau—a figure venerated by the Christians as symbolising the Cross—were placed the altar, the
sanctuary, and the precincts occupied by the deacons and sub-deacons. The altar stood in the midst, between the hemicycle or apse and the nave arch. The hemicycle or apse which formed the Pagan tribunal was by the Christians reserved for ordained priests, hence its name, presbyterium. A semi-circular bench (consistorium), interrupted in the middle by a seat higher than the rest, on either side of which sat the inferior clergy, surrounded the apse, the raised seat (suggestus) being the throne of the bishop or his representative.
This portion of the basilica underwent a later modification; from the presbyterium it became the martyrium, or shrine in which was placed the body of the patron saint of the basilica or the relic to which the devotion of the faithful was specially addressed. This usage had been established even before the year 500 in the first basilica of St. Martin at Tours.
The primitive apse was lighted only from the nave or transept. After its transformation into the martyrium it was not only pierced with windows, but, according to some authors, was provided with openings along its base, or even arcaded, so as to give access to a low gallery running round it. If this be so, the characteristic arrangement of mediæval churches dates from the fifth century.