The heart is enclosed in a double walled sac called the pericardium.
The pericardium has two layers: the outer fibrous layer and the inner serous layer. The fibrous layer helps protect the heart and anchors it in place within the chest, while the serous layer is further divided into parietal and visceral layers. The visceral layer, also known as the epicardium, is directly attached to the surface of the heart. Between these two serous layers is the pericardial cavity, which contains a small amount of fluid that helps reduce friction as the heart beats. This protective mechanism is crucial for the heart’s function and overall health.