stall

In church architecture, a choir stall is a seat located in the choir area, which is situated between the nave and the altar. These stalls are designed to accommodate liturgical singers.1

Originally, churches did not have dedicated spaces for singers. However, as church rituals became more complex starting in the 10th century, more space was needed for the growing number of participants. Early choirs had simple chairs, but by the Gothic period, these evolved into choir stalls. These were built-in structures with prayer rests and hinged seats. When folded up, the seats often revealed "misericords," which are projections that provided support for singers during long periods of standing.1

Choir stalls are typically arranged in stepped rows along the edges of the choir, facing each other and perpendicular to the altar. Medieval craftsmen often carved these wooden stalls with intricate designs, including animal figures, biblical scenes, or abstract patterns. Sometimes, canopies and high arms were added, making each seat resemble a small, separate structure.1