The nave side aisle in Romanesque architecture serves several practical and symbolic purposes.
Practically, the side aisle allows for additional circulation and movement within the church during times of high attendance. It also provides space for extra seating or small chapels dedicated to specific saints or historical figures.
Symbolically, the nave side aisle represents the journey of the faithful Christian through life, with the nave symbolizing the path to salvation and the side aisle representing the distractions and temptations that one may encounter along the way. It also represents the hierarchy of the church, with the nave representing the common people and the side aisle representing the clergy.
Overall, the nave side aisle in Romanesque architecture is an essential element of the church's design and meaning, emphasizing both practicality and symbolism.
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