Definition & Meaning of "chantry chapel"

What is a "chantry chapel"?

A chantry chapel is a small chapel within a church dedicated to offering prayers or masses for the soul of a specific individual, often a benefactor or member of the clergy. This type of chapel is typically built as a memorial, providing a quiet space for reflection and worship. Chantry chapels often contain altars and may feature decorative elements that honor the person for whom they are dedicated. They serve as a place where the living can remember and pray for the deceased, contributing to the overall spiritual atmosphere of the church and connecting the past with the present.