Cella vs. Naos — What's the Difference?

Cella is a term used in Roman architecture to describe the inner area of a temple that is usually enclosed and not accessible to the general public. This is where the statue of the god to whom the temple was dedicated is placed. On the other hand, naos refers more specifically to the principal chamber of a Greek temple where the cult statue is situated.

The cella is typically a single room or a complex of rooms in larger temples, serving as the most sacred area. Whereas, naos, as a part of the Greek architectural tradition, is essentially the Greek equivalent of the Roman cella but often emphasizes the enclosure aspect within the broader temple structure.

Architecturally, the cella may be completely enclosed by walls and accessible only through a single door, providing a secluded environment for the deity. In contrast, the naos, while also enclosed, often features a pronaos (a porch before the naos) which adds an additional architectural element to the Greek temples.

In terms of functionality, both the cella and naos serve the same primary purpose: to protect and house the deity's statue. However, the design and accessibility can differ, with some Greek temples' naos being partially visible to the public during certain rites, unlike the typically more secluded Roman cella.

The decoration and ornamentation of a cella can vary widely, often depending on the importance of the temple and the wealth of its patrons. Meanwhile, the naos, particularly in classical Greek architecture, might feature elaborate architectural designs like carved columns and detailed friezes to emphasize its significance.