Most Distinctive Feature of Islamic Architecture

Islamic architecture is most prevalent in Muslim-majority countries or Arab states like Algeria, Egypt, and Iraq. It is also common in European regions with Moorish traditions, such as portions of Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Malta. 

This style of architecture is often linked with the mosque, which is the place of worship for Muslims, but it may also be seen in other structures such as palaces, public buildings, tombs, and forts. However, whether it be religious or secular, the stunning architectural style is well-known for its vibrant hues, intricate patterns, and symmetrical forms. It has been popular in the Muslim world since the 7th century.

Distinctive Elements

Islamic architecture has the following most distinctive elements:

• Minarets
• Domes
• Muqarnas vaulting
• Arches
• Decorative details
• Arabesque art
• Hypostyle halls

Minarets

A minaret is a spire or tower-like building with a closed staircase and tiny windows. It can be found close to the majority of mosques, and is one of the earliest components of Islamic architecture. The main purpose of the minaret is to provide the muezzin with a place to summon people to prayer while standing in an elevated position. 

Some mosques feature more than one minaret since the 11th century, which is generally a sign of the sultan who founded it.

Domes

Islamic architects also use domes in their designs, just like many other avant-garde architectural styles, such as those from the Byzantine and Italian Renaissance eras.

The first Islamic structure with this design feature is the 7th-century sanctuary Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. The octagonal building’s Byzantine-inspired design is crowned by a timber dome that was given a gilded finish in the 16th century. The dome rests on a drum supported by 16 piers and columns, as opposed to the majority of Islamic domes, which rest on pendentives.

A square or rectangular room can have a circular base for a round or elliptical dome by using pendentives, which are tapered structures. Pendentives in Islamic architecture are frequently embellished with tiles or muqarnas, a kind of sculptural embellishment.

Muqarnas Vaulting

Muqarnas frequently draw comparisons to stalactites or honeycombs because of their sculptural design and patterned appearance. This distinctive decoration is seen on vaults as well as domes and pendentives, and it features ceilings that are monochrome contrasting the tiles around them.

Arches

The arch is another essential feature of Islamic construction. They can be seen in both interior and exterior spaces, and can be divided into four basic types: pointed, ogee, horseshoe, and multifoil. The pointed arch has a tapered apex and a rounded shape. This style of the arch went on to play a significant role in Gothic design.

The pointed arch and the ogee arch are comparable. Its point, however, is made up of two s-shaped lines and has a sinuous-like appearance as a result.

The horseshoe arch, often called a keyhole arch, is connected to Moorish design. This kind of construction is identified by the dramatic expansion and narrowing of its sides. Its crown can be either rounded or pointed.

Decorative Details

An emphasis on ornamental details can be commonly seen in Islamic architecture. These usually feature jewel-like tiles organised into geometric mosaics, patterned brickwork, stones with kaleidoscope patterns, and elegant calligraphic embellishments.

These striking ornaments, along with imposing domes, captivating muqarnas vaulting, and distinctive arches, demonstrate the transcendent quality of Islamic architecture.

Arabesque Art

The decorative patterns, which have Arab roots, feature calligraphy, exquisite paintwork, floral motifs, and geometric and gold patterns. The crescent and the eight-pointed star are universal symbols that appear in many different designs. 

Hypostyle Halls

Hypostyle rooms are square or rectangular halls that date back to the Umayyad Dynasty. These improve visual appeal, and a prominent example is the design of the Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul.

Besides these features, there are several other prominent features of Islamic Architecture as well, which can be seen in different buildings from Islamic Era.

The striking design features characterize Islamic buildings, most of which are the most awe-inspiring structures that were ever built.