An iconostasis is a fixed screen between a church's sanctuary and its nave or worship area, usually covered with icons and fitted with doors. Eastern Orthodox, Byzantine Catholic, and several Oriental Orthodox traditions use one to focus attention on the altar, honor sacred images, and show that the sanctuary is a distinct place of worship.
What is the purpose of an iconostasis?
The screen creates a visual boundary without sealing off the sanctuary. When the central doors are open, worshipers can see the altar, clergy, candles, and liturgical hangings. Its ordered images also give icons a prominent place in the church's architecture.
Eastern Christian traditions distinguish the veneration of icons from worship, which is directed to God. Orthodox icons explains that practice in more detail.
What do the doors and panels show?
A traditional iconostasis may have three horizontal tiers, although churches vary in size, design, and imagery. The central doors are commonly called the Royal Doors; they often show the Annunciation. Other panels commonly portray Christ, the Virgin Mary, John the Baptist, apostles, bishops, and events from Christ's life. The doors may also bear figures such as archangels or evangelists.
The Royal Doors are more than entrances for practical movement. Their opening and closing can mark stages of a service, while the icons make the doorway a visual focus. In some Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic churches, a curtain or veil covers the doors during parts of Great Lent and on certain penitential days.
Which churches use an iconostasis?
The term is most common in Eastern Orthodox churches and Eastern Catholic churches that follow Byzantine traditions. Coptic, Armenian, Syriac, and other Oriental Orthodox churches also use icon-bearing sanctuary screens, though they may describe them with different local or regional names. In Western churches, a rood screen, altar rail, or reredos may serve a related architectural or devotional purpose, but it is not usually called an iconostasis.
How is it used in worship?
In the Divine Liturgy and comparable Eastern Christian services, the central doors may open for Scripture readings, incense, processions, and movements connected with the altar. Clergy may venerate an icon by kissing it. In many Orthodox churches, visitors may enter the sanctuary during public worship, but local customs differ, so follow the direction of greeters or ushers.
What should a first-time visitor notice?
A visitor can use the iconostasis to understand where the church considers the sanctuary to begin and how images function in worship. Look for the central doors, carved or painted panels, hanging lamps, and any seasonal veil. Visitors should understand the icons as sacred objects within the church's tradition, not as idols or theatrical props. If photography is uncommon or restricted, follow posted guidance and ask before taking pictures.