Conserving the Religious and Traditional Values of Muslims with a Dome-less Mosque Architecture: A Case Study of Shah Faisal Mosque, Islamabad

Abstract

The mosque occupies a central position in the social as well as religious life of Muslims. It is not only a place of worship where rituals are performed, but also serves as a social space where Muslims take part in welfare activities. The design and architecture of the mosque have local as well as global influences, representing religious, economic, and aesthetic dimensions of Muslim social organization. Generally, the Muslim architecture has three notable things: domes, arches and minarets. There are very few examples of mosques which lack any one or all of these architectural features, but still they are maintaining the Muslims’ traditional values. In this case-study, the Shah Faisal Mosque of Pakistan, a dome-less mosque situated in the heart of Islamabad, has been discussed in detail. This mosque is one of the best examples of modern Muslim architecture. This paper discusses the development of innovative architectural and design elements of the mosque and their benefit to the various functions in terms of space planning, proportion and aesthetics. A theoretical analysis is also performed to assess the effectiveness of the cultural and religious role being played by the mosque at national and global level.