(Greek: krypte, hidden) A secret recess or vault. The origin of the crypts of the Middle Ages was the custom which prevailed in Rome, after the catacombs became disused, of bringing martyrs into the city and burying them in tombs under churches. In the basilicas these tombs were called confessiones. The terms is sometimes applied to the lower story of a two-storied building. Such a crypt might be fully above ground and lighted by windows.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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