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The '''altar''' is the area at the east end of a [[church]], usually behind an [[iconostasis]] (altar screen). The word (Hebrew: מזבח -‎ ''mizbe'ah'' - altar) means "a place of sacrifice" in Hebrew (Gr. ἱερόν θυσιατήριον - hieron thysiasterion; Sl. prestol). The altar often is also referred to as the '''sanctuary'''. An '''Altar Table''' is located in the center of the altar as one enters through the [[Royal Doors]] in the iconostasis. This table is often referred to as the Holy Table.

Entry to the altar through the iconostasis from the [[nave]] is through the centrally placed royal doors or through the deacon's doors to the left and right of the royal doors. A [[curtain]], that represents the curtain that separated the Holy of Holiness in the ancient Temple of the Jews in Jerusalem, may be installed and drawn across the closed royal doors when Divine Services are not being conducted and at certain times during these services. Only [[ordination|ordained]] [[clergy]] can pass through the royal doors. The altar may have other entries behind the iconostasis, but these are not used liturgically.