Architecture is one of the most beautiful contributions of Islamic civilisation. Muslim builders created grand and graceful buildings that can still be admired today, especially mosques, palaces and public buildings.
Special Features
Islamic architecture is known for several special design features:
- Domes — large rounded roofs that rise above mosques and other buildings.
- Arches — curved openings for doors and windows, often pointed or horseshoe-shaped.
- Minarets — tall, slender towers from which the call to prayer is made.
- Geometric patterns and calligraphy — because pictures of living things were avoided in holy places, artists decorated walls with beautiful patterns and Arabic writing.
Famous Buildings
Many splendid buildings show the skill of Islamic architecture, such as grand mosques with soaring domes and tall minarets, and palaces decorated with fine patterns and gardens with fountains. These designs spread to many lands, from the Middle East to Spain and, later, to parts of Asia including the Malay world.
| Feature | Use |
| Dome | Rounded roof over the building |
| Minaret | Tower for the call to prayer |
| Arch | Curved doors and windows |
Remember
- Key features: domes, arches, minarets and geometric patterns.
- Calligraphy (beautiful Arabic writing) was used to decorate walls.
- Islamic architecture spread as far as Spain and the Malay world.