Architecture of Heritage Mosques in Mafraq Province

ISSN： 1558-3058

Source： International Journal of Architectural Heritage, Vol.7, Iss.4, 2013-01, pp. : 461-478

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Abstract

This study discusses the architectural attributes of 35 heritage mosques in Mafraq Province, established in the early Arabic Islamic ages. The researchers adopted the field study approach and the comparative descriptive method approach. The study focuses on mosques characterized by simplicity of the form without complexity in the architectural vocabulary, consisting of three major components: the praying hall, the mehrab, and the pulpit (manbar), whereas other mosques also contain other components, such as a minaret and a place for ablution (wudoo). Despite the obvious similarity in construction materials and methods, differences are evident in the periods of construction, the political circumstances, and the natural environment, which affected the production of different forms and relatively varied architectural styles of these mosques. The research recommends expanded study of these mosques and urges leaders to expedite plans to preserve them and make use of them for tourism development projects in general and for Islamic religious tourism in particular.