Apse /(ăps)/

Apse

n.
  1. A projecting part of a building, esp. of a church, having in the plan a polygonal or semicircular termination, and, most often, projecting from the east end. In early churches the Eastern apse was occupied by seats for the bishop and clergy. (Arch.)
  2. A reliquary, or case in which the relics of saints were kept.