Mosque Architecture

There is no preordained form for Islamic Architecture-except the fact that any mosque in the world is oriented towards qibla(facing Makkah). The architecture takes shape from Culture and History of the place and hence blends itself with the local vernacular.

Example-Timbaktu Mosque in Mali- Infact there are many more examples it this and worth a study. For instance in Kerala the Cheraman Mosque built in in 629AD is an outstanding example to show how the built form merged with the local vernacular.

Preserving old mosques is very important and there should be an international effort to do so.

Look at the "KirKi Masjid" and the "Begumpuri Masjid" in new Delhi- Neither the Archeological Survey of India nor the local population (citizens) are interested in preserving these mosques built in 1367AD........