Encyclopedia
Altar
Altar (lat. - high sacrificial altar) - a part of the church separated by an iconostasis and located on an elevated platform, intended for clergy, where the throne is situated; the place where the Eucharist rite is performed; symbolizes the heavenly sphere, Paradise
Source: "SP 31-103-99. Buildings, Structures, and Complexes of Orthodox Churches"
(adopted by Decree of the State Construction Committee of Russia dated December 27, 1999 No. 92)