[Music] good job [Music] islamic architecture refers to the building traditions developed in Muslim majority regions since the 7th century while influenced by Byzantine Persian and Indian styles it evolved into a distinct architectural language shaped by Islamic principles one of the most striking features of Islamic architecture is the dome domes are often placed above prayer halls the Ottoman Empire perfected the massive central dome style seen in mosques like the Sultan Ahmed mosque minouretes are tall towers from which the call to prayer is announced they come in various styles slender Ottoman minetses square shaped North African minoretses and spiral minoretses like the one in Samara Iraq islamic architecture features elegant arches adding both beauty and structural strength the horseshoe arch common in Spain and North Africa is seen in the Alhhamra the pointed arch later adopted in Gothic architecture dominates mosques worldwide islamic art avoids human figures focusing instead on complex geometric patterns floral motifs and Arabic calligraphy these designs symbolize the infinite nature of Allah the Dome of the Rock and the Alhhamra showcase some of the finest examples mukarnas are intricate honeycomb like decorative elements used in ceilings and vaults they create stunning light and shadow effects making spaces feel almost weightless this technique is a hallmark of Islamic architecture in regions like Iran and Morocco many Islamic buildings feature large open courtyards often with fountains or reflecting pools water symbolizes purity and paradise as described in the Quran the Alhhamra and Persian gardens use water as a central design element islamic architecture is not just about aesthetics it serves important spiritual and functional purposes for over a thousand years Islamic architecture has shaped skylines inspired countless architects and created spaces that blend faith with artistic brilliance whether it's the symmetry of a mosque the calligraphy on its walls or the tranquility of its courtyards every detail has a purpose next time you step into an Islamic building look closer you might just see history mathematics and spirituality woven into every design