In architecture, the term ‘Narthex’ refers to a porch or vestibule of a church. It refers to the entrance or lobby of a church which is situated at the west end of the Nave, opposite the church's main altar.  Narthex was regarded as a part of a church but was not regarded as a proper part of the church. It may also refer to a covered porch or entrance to a building. By tradition, the narthex was considered a part of the church itself. In English the narthex is now the porch outside the church at the west end.