Elements of Islamic architecture
Elements of Islamic architecture are mainly inherited from the first mosque that was built during Prophet Muhammad's time, called Masjid al-Nabawi. Today these elements are mostly found in the buildings of mosques throughout the world, however in the United States some of the elements are limited or do not exist due to limiting regulations and lack of funding. Some of the main elements are as follows:
Dome was not a part of the first mosque (Masjig al-Nabawi), it was rather an addition to the Islamic architecture after Muslim conquest of Greek-Roman Syria, and it was advanced by Persians later on.
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Iwan or pishtaq is the formal gateway to the main prayer hall of a mosque. It is built with three side walls and an entirely open end. The three walls are decorated with calligraphy, glazed tile-work, mirror art, and geometric designs.
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Central fountains used for ablutions. However in the more modern designs the plumbing system has replaced the traditional style fountains.
Main prayer halls are decorated with elaborate art styles, such as ceramic and tile art, mirror art, carving, etc.
The art and tiles in the Persian and Indian style are more colorful, and in the Arabic designs paler sandstones and grey stones are used. This difference in design can be seen in colors used in Al-Azhar mosque of Cairo and Jameh mosque of Hamedan.
In the building of the Islamic Center of Washington DC both of these designs are used; the main prayer hall is filled with bright colors and elaborate tiles, and the exterior is more in the grey and sand tone.
In the building of the Islamic Center of Washington DC both of these designs are used; the main prayer hall is filled with bright colors and elaborate tiles, and the exterior is more in the grey and sand tone.
Mosques in the usa
Despite the common belief that Muslims and mosques are relatively new in the USA, they have been part of the American history since the colonial era. Islam was introduced to the Americas by Muslim slaves who were brought here from Africa.
Throughout years the number of mosques has grown in the USA. Some of these mosques are built from scratch there fore more of the Islamic architectural elements are found in them, compare to those that have been other type of buildings converted to mosques.
Throughout years the number of mosques has grown in the USA. Some of these mosques are built from scratch there fore more of the Islamic architectural elements are found in them, compare to those that have been other type of buildings converted to mosques.