Crash Course: Islamic Architecture

Many American mosques appear to be distinctly Eastern. Find out what influenced them to look that way. By Asma Ahmad

Islamic architecture is often associated with lavish palaces and tombs such as the Taj Mahal�or in the case of Switzerland’s recent ban on minarets�terrorism. In reality, the most recognizable elements of Islamic architecture are actually tied to the mosque, or Muslim house of worship.

As Islam spread across the world, so did the architecture associated with the mosque. The beauty of Islamic architecture was quickly incorporated and adapted by local cultures. Soon, the Ottoman needle minaret could easily be distinguished from the spiral minarets of Samarra.

With time, as in the case of the Taj Mahal, the architecture was disconnected from its original source�the mosque. Now, as an increasing number of Muslim immigrants leave their Islamic homelands, America is experiencing a surge of local Islamic architecture. Elements of this style are present in modern-day mosques, just as they were during the early Islamic period.

However, due to local noise ordinances and building restrictions, the architectural elements found in American mosques serve as aesthetic ornaments rather than functional objects according to Khatija Hashmy, architect with the Chicago Park District Planning Department.

“The domes aren’t really needed,”� says Hashmy, who was an architect for the latest addition to the Islamic Foundation in Villa Park, Ill. “They’re there more for sentimental purposes.”�

Here’s a quick history lesson on three of the most recognizable elements of Islamic architecture.

THE DOME

A traditional symbol in Islamic countries across the globe, the dome signifies the openness of the Islamic faith. It is usually constructed as the ceiling for the main prayer hall and its great height is meant to elate followers’ feelings of connection to God and Heaven.

THE ARCH

Perfected by the Spanish and Moroccans, the use of arches in Islamic architecture had a practical beginning: it was the easiest way to create a load-bearing doorway. Like the dome, the height of arches is meant to create a feeling of connection with God and Heaven.

THE MINARET

According to Markus Hattstein and Peter Delius, authors of Islam: Art and Architecture, the minaret came from the Prophet Muhammad’s house in Medina where there was a raised area for the adhan (call to prayer). Its height serves to orient Muslims towards the nearest mosque.

All photos by Asma Ahmad.