Mosque Architecture Terminology : Introduction To The Region

Several architectural feats deserve special attention in mosques. There are two basic designs. The Arab style, based on Muhammad’s house, has a pillared cloister around a courtyard (hypostyle), while the Persian style has a vaulted arch on each side. Most prominent are the towering minarets from which the chants of the muezzin summon the faithful to prayer five times daily. Mosques are generally rectangular with cool arcaded porches (riwaqs) surrounding a central open courtyard (sahn). These usually contain a central covered fountain (sabil) for ablutions before prayer. The focus of each mosque is the qibla wall which holds the prayer niche (mihrab) and indicates the direction of Mecca.

Particularly in Mamluk mosques, the mihrab and qibla are elaborately decorated with marble inlay and Kufic inscriptions. Because Muslims consider representations of nature (animals, people) to be blasphemous imitations of God, abstract artwork dominates the mosques’ decorations. In the Fatamid period, interlaced foliate patterns in carved stucco and plaster were popular ornamentation. Geometric patterns and elegant calligraphy appeared later in Mamluk times. Particularly beautiful examples of work from this period are found on the pulpits (minbars) that usually stand beside the mihrab. Under the seat of the minbar. on the side, there is often an archway, allowing you to cross to the other side as you make a wish, called a “wishing door.”