Sacred Spaces / Blog Post # 1
Several projects for places of worship have prompted a deeper study of religious buildings; the characteristics and meanings behind which centuries of institutional design has deemed sacred. The next series of blog posts will include descriptions of design elements of this class of buildings as an overview of past and contemporary function.
The Mosque
Elements of the mosque space were historically created for practical use, as the mosque was not only reserved for ascetic purposes, but as a complex at the heart of communities. As such, the large open space of the mosque, called the Sahn, included markets, hospice, and schools. The use of the Sahn today is mainly for congregation, but is multi-functional when auxiliary separation for other needs are unavailable.
The Mihrab, or niche space, faces the direction of Mecca and is where the Imam offers the sermon and leads congregational prayer. It is usually uniquely ornamented and inset to the wall to delineate an area for the teachers, imams and speakers.
A Minaret is an exterior feature of the mosque as a tower from which the call to prayer is made, and as a locational icon of the mosque's presence within the area. Its function prior to new age technologies was mainly to inform the community of the 5 daily prayers. Today, however, the minaret is not often included in projects where costs for the tower can be prohibitive.
The Qubba, or dome, of the mosque traces roots to Byzantine (Eastern Roman) architecture. Basilicas of the time featured vaulted central domes with religious symbolism and inscription. These domes are considered decorative in nature and reflect a celestial or heavenly tradition within the space.
The above illustrates the composition of the most basic mosque. One will notice overlaps with other spiritual spaces to be reserved for our next installments. The following link includes virtual 3D mosques around the globe for you to experience. Safe travels and exploration!
