refuge vs sanctuary

refuge and sanctuary both are nouns.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
refuge	Yes	No	No	No
sanctuary	Yes	No	No	No

As nouns, refuge and sanctuary are synonyms defined as:

Other synonyms of refuge include asylum.

refuge (noun)	sanctuary (noun)
act of turning to for assistance	area around the altar of a church for the clergy and choir; often enclosed by a lattice or railing
a shelter from danger or hardship	a shelter from danger or hardship
something or someone turned to for assistance or security	a consecrated place where sacred objects are kept
a safe place