Architecture et Construction - Architecture Islamique

a place of worship, used by Muslims

mosquée

a thin and tall tower, often on top of a mosque, from which Muslim are summoned to prayers

minaret

a curved space in a mosque that shows Muslims which direction to face during prayer, serving as a central spot for worshippers

mihrab

a stepped pulpit used by the imam to deliver sermons during congregational prayers

minbare

intricate, flowing decorative patterns of intertwined plant motifs, often seen in tilework, woodwork, and stucco

arabesque

a covered arcade or portico often surrounding a courtyard, providing shade and shelter for circulation and gatherings

arcade couverte

intricate mosaic tilework, typically featuring small, hand-cut geometric shapes, commonly used to adorn walls, floors, and fountains

zellige

an architectural element used to catch and direct natural breezes for cooling and ventilation in hot climates

captateur de vent

a vaulted space or arched portal, often with a large open entrance, leading to a courtyard or central hall in Islamic architecture

iwan

a decorative architectural element in Islamic art characterized by a series of intricate, tiered, and geometrically arranged niches or stalactite-like structures that create a visually stunning and complex pattern

muqarnas

a symmetrical and intricate design created by interlocking geometric shapes, commonly used in decorative elements

motif géométrique

a traditional architectural element often seen in Middle Eastern buildings, especially in windows or balconies, consisting of wooden screens or panels that allow air to pass through while keeping the area private and providing shade from the sun

mashrabiya

the wall within a mosque that indicates the direction of Mecca, toward which Muslims face during their prayers, typically marked by the presence of the mihrab

mur de qibla

a black cube-like building located inside a mosque in Mecca, which is the holiest place for Muslims and which they pray towards and walk around as a religious ceremony

Kaaba

a type of ceramic tile produced in the town of Iznik, Turkey, known for its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and floral motifs, often used in the decoration of mosques, palaces, and other architectural structures

carreau d'Iznik

a public water fountain, typically found in Islamic cities, providing free drinking water to the community, especially to travelers and the needy

sabil

an enclosed area or screen within a mosque, usually located near the mihrab, designed to separate dignitaries or the ruling authority from the general congregation during prayers

maqsurah

a perforated stone screen with intricate patterns used in Islamic architecture for decorative windows, partitions, and enclosures

jali

a Moroccan plastering technique used in Islamic-influenced architecture to create a polished, waterproof surface on interior walls and structures

tadelakt

a central hall or reception room in Islamic architecture, commonly found in traditional Middle Eastern homes and palaces, serving as a spacious gathering area for social events

qa'a

the balcony or gallery located at the top of a minaret, typically used by the muezzin, the caller to prayer, to deliver the adhan, the call to prayer

balcon

the central courtyard in Islamic architecture, often enclosed by arcades, serving as a communal gathering space for various activities

cour centrale

a sacred or restricted area within a mosque or other religious sites, typically designated for prayer or religious activities

haram