Lavice

Lavice is a Czech noun that denotes a long seating element intended for several people. It is used for various types of seating, from public benches to classroom desks. The term can refer to freestanding benches found in parks and squares, to built-in seating in public buildings, and in church contexts to pews.

In schools the phrase školní lavice describes a bench with an attached writing surface arranged in rows for students. Outdoor lavice are usually wooden or metal benches, sometimes with backrests, designed for durability in public spaces. In churches or chapels lavice may refer to pews, long benches where congregants sit.

Materials and design vary by setting. Outdoor lavice emphasize weather resistance and simple construction; indoor varieties may include backrests, armrests, or integrated desks. They are commonly placed in parallel rows or along walls, depending on space and function.

Aside from Czech usage, cognate terms exist in related Slavic languages, and the concept corresponds to benches or pews in many languages. The word lavice is a general, neutral term for long seating used by multiple people in a variety of contexts.