| Author(s) | Mohammed Alxlullah Eben Saleh |
| Affiliation | Department of Architecture and Building Sciences, King Saud University. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
| Title | Mosque Architecture in an Insular Context: |
| Source | Journal of King Saud University. Architecture & Planning. Volume 8, No 1. (1996/1416) |
| Abstract | As a result of its physical chamcteristics and’its cultural and religious role in the Muslim society, the mosque has long attracted the attention of maoy scholars. The mosque cemented be-liefs by providing e physical and psychological focus for the Muslim community. This work examines the traditional mosques of the community of Al-All&&f io Southwestern Saudi Arabia The historical development and achievement of these cultural and religious buildings have notable significance to the architecture and planning of Al-Alkhalaf context. The work describes the relationship of basic Islamic principles to the site. selection, design, construction and use of the mosques. It then documents the design elements of the two remaining traditional structures in the community. It assesses the impact of the early mosque of Prophet Mohammed on the development of Al-AU&f mosque architecture and also notes the influence of the spatial arrangements and pattern of the se.ttlement on the mosque allocation. The study demonstrates that the simplicity of the indigenous design should not necessarily be abandoned in the rush to erect modem “exotic” architecture. Rather today’s architect and planner must take from tradition that which contributed to mosques which perfectly met community requirements both functionally and spiritually. |
