Hierarchy classification:

1. top of the aat hierarchies
2. Objects Facet
3. Components (hierarchy name)
4. components (objects parts)
5. [components by specific context]
6. architectural elements
7. [architectural elements by building type]
8. religious building fixtures
9. [altars and altar components]

Narrower term/s

• high altars
• freestanding altars[+]
  • fire altars
  • arae
  • thymeles
  • bomoi
  • grave altars [NP]
  • council altars (Roman Catholic church)
• confessions (tombs) [NP]
• asen [NP]
• boliw [NP]
• portable altars[+]
  • altar chests [NP]
• house altars[+]
  • arulae
• grave altars [NP]
• portico altars
• sarcophagus altars [NP]
• side altars[+]
  • Lady altars
• altar tables
• ofrendas (altars)
• acerras (altars)
• balikkals

Anotations

Scope note:

Elevated platforms or constructions upon which religious sacrifice is offered or other religious or spiritual activities carried out. In a Christian church altars are platforms where Eucharistic elements are consecrated, in the ancient tradition of a sacrifice. Includes both indoor small, tablelike fixtures and larger, free-standing, outdoor structures. It consists of a horizontal part, the mensa, placed on various types of supports. For the surface at which communion is celebrated in Protestant churches, use "communion tables."