Soleas

thumb|Marble soleas in front of the iconostasis at [[Moni Arkadiou, Crete]] The soleas (() = meaning (“bottom, base”, as used in "sole of a shoe", cf. also the "sole" from the resemblance of fish to a flat shoe. Of uncertain origin)) is an extension of the sanctuary platform in an Eastern Orthodox temple (church building). The soleas projects beyond the iconostasis, forming a narrow walkway running the full length of the iconostasis.

In the center of the soleas is the ambon, directly in front of the Holy Doors, where the communicants stand to receive Holy Communion and where the clergy come out for public prayers, sermons, etc.