Ambo with lectern

3D ModelNoAI

Around 1000, the interior of churches was divided into two parts: one area for the churchgoers and one sacred area for the celebration of the mass, separated by a chancel screen with curtains. One part of the sacred area protruded into the public area and contained an ambo with a lectern, from where the Scriptures were read. In this way, the churchgoers could hear the mass better but not see it. The curtains of the central entrance were opened only during the consecration. The physical reconstruction of the abbey chapel in Campus Galli shows how early churches looked like. A popular shape for the lectern was an eagle with spread wings, depicting John the Evangelist.