Domes in Islamic architecture are considered a symbol of the sky and spiritual elevation, adding beauty and a distinctive charm to religious and civil buildings. Their shapes, construction techniques and decorations have varied over the centuries, reflecting the artistic and architectural development of Islamic civilisation.
Domes are among the most prominent architectural elements in Islamic architecture, showcasing artistic and engineering advancements across different eras. They were used to cover large spaces in mosques, shrines and public buildings, becoming a symbol of beauty and innovation in Islamic architectural design.
Muslims began using domes in Islamic architecture during the Umayyad era. The construction of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, commissioned by the Umayyad Caliph Abd Al Malik Ibn Marwan in 72 AH/691AD, is considered the first prominent example of domes in Islamic architecture. The Dome of the Rock is the oldest surviving dome in Islamic architectural history.
After its construction, the use and development of domes continued in Islamic architecture. For example, the Dome of the Eagle in Umayyad Mosque in Damascus was built during the reign of Al Walid Ibn Abd Al Malik between 132-133AH/750AD.
Over time, domes became an essential element in the design of mosques and other Islamic buildings, adding aesthetic and symbolic touches reflecting the sky and spiritual transcendence. The shapes, construction techniques and decorations of domes evolved through different Islamic periods.
Muslims began using domes in Islamic architecture during the Umayyad era. The construction of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, commissioned by the Umayyad Caliph Abd Al Malik Ibn Marwan in 72 AH/691AD, is considered the first prominent example of domes in Islamic architecture. The Dome of the Rock is the oldest surviving dome in Islamic architectural history.
During the Fatimid era, domes were used extensively in Egypt. The dome of Imam Al Shafi'i in Cairo, built in 608AH/1211AD, is an example. Domes in this period were constructed with brick and featured semi-circular or slightly pointed cross-sections.
During the Mamluk era, dome construction techniques evolved significantly. By the ninth century AH, stone was commonly used in dome construction. These domes featured pointed and bulbous profiles, adorned with intricate geometric and floral decorations. A notable example is the dome of Sultan Hassan's school in Cairo, built in 757AH/1356AD.
In the Ottoman era, domes became a defining feature of architecture, covering large mosques such as the dome of the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, built in the 10th century AH/16th century AD. Ottoman domes were distinguished by their large sizes and complex engineering designs.
Domes in Islamic architecture stand as a living testament to the engineering and artistic ingenuity of Muslims throughout history, reflecting the cultural and geographical diversity of Islamic civilisation.
Domes remain one of the most significant architectural elements in Islamic design, witnessing remarkable advancements in modern designs that combine beauty and engineering innovation. Below are some of the most beautiful modern Islamic domes:
The Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world, and its dome features exquisite geometric designs and traditional Moroccan decorations, making it a modern architectural masterpiece.
King Faisal Mosque is known for its unique design that blends Islamic and modern architecture. Its triangular dome is one of its most striking features, making it one of the most beautiful modern mosques.
The National Mosque in Kuala Lumpur is distinguished by its unique design and iconic blue dome, making it one of the most prominent modern Islamic landmarks in Malaysia.
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the most remarkable modern Islamic landmarks in Oman, featuring a dome with intricate Islamic designs and outstanding architectural beauty.
