Top 10 Islamic Architecture

Top 10 Islamic Architecture

Islamic culture has given some of the most beautiful architectural masterpieces to the world. Painstaking details and ornaments are the signature and unique features of Islamic architecture. Here are our ten choices of beautiful historic and contemporary buildings. Where would you like to go?

10. Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse, Kashan, Iran

Built in the 16th century, today the previous bathhouse is a popular tourist attraction. It is registered as a national heritage site. The house is decorated with amazing ornamental tiles, some of which are turquoise and gold.

Why to go there?

A wonderful architecture and décor, historical and cultural significance, one of the most popular sites in the area.

When to go there?

All year round.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Bathhouse-Photo by Ali KoRdZaDeh3

Photo by Ali KoRdZaDeh

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Bathhouse-Photo by Saeed Nazari

Photo by Saeed Nazari

9. Chefchaouen, Morocco

Founded in the 15th century, the village is surrounded with the Rif Mountains. Its historic prominence, cultural authenticity, but mostly its blue coloration attracts many tourists all year round. Visitors also enjoy strolling in the streets, visiting the handcrafts markets and tasting the local cuisine.

Why to go there?

A beautiful historic village, situated in the scenic surroundings.

Read more: Chefchaouen – the Blue City in Morocco

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Chefchaouen-Photo by Javier Garcia

Photo by Javier Garcia

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Chefchaouen-Photo by Andy Mumford

Photo by Andy Mumford

8. Montaza Palace, Alexandria, Egypt

Built in 1932, the site served as a summer palace for King Fuad I. Situated on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, the palace’s architecture combines Turkish and Florentine styles. Today the palace and its extensive royal gardens are open for public to view.

Why to go there?

A wonderful place to look around and have an exhilarating stroll in the gardens.

How to get there?

It is found in the western part of the city. Get there by bus or taxi.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Montazai-Photo by amrw

Photo by amrw

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Montazai-Photo by Mohamed Ashry

Photo by Mohamed Ashry

7. Burj Al Arab, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

One of the most luxurious, claimed to be the only seven star hotel in the world, Burj Al Arab fascinates inside out. From outside its shape reminds that of a sail, while inside the visitors are impressed with outstanding luxury.

Why to go there?

The most famous hotel in the world, offering the most luxurious stay.

Read more: Burj Al Arab – One and Only 7 Star Hotel in Dubai

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Burj Al Arab

Photo by Burj Al Arab

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Burj Al Arab-Photo by Burj Al Arab

Photo by Burj Al Arab

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Burj Al Arab-Photo by Burj Al Arab2

Photo by Burj Al Arab

6. Jameh Mosque of Isfahān, Isfahān, Iran

The spectacular mosque is a result of continual constructions, that took place from the 7th to the 20th century! However, it is considered to be the oldest shrine in the country. It is also said to be a Persian architectural masterpiece.

Why to go there?

A wonderful Persian architecture, a famous mosque.

How to get there?

Get around Isfahān by bus – it is cheap and popular transportation.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Jame Mosque-Photo by Ali KoRdZaDeh2

Photo by Ali KoRdZaDeh

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Jame Mosque-Photo by Ali KoRdZaDeh

Photo by Ali KoRdZaDeh

5. Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco

The mosque has beaten some records: it is the largest mosque in Africa and at 210 m (689 ft) has the tallest minaret in the world. Completed in 1993, the marble mosque stands on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, which is visible through the glass floor in the hall.

Why to go there?

One of the most significant buildings in Morocco.

How to get there?

By taxi from the city center.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Hassan-Photo by Soma Images

Photo by Soma Images

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Hassan-Photo by Soma Images2

Photo by Soma Images

4. The Alhambra, Andalusia, Spain

The stunning palace and fortress complex was built during the Muslim rule of Spain. Its beauty can be explained by the fact that it was intentionally designed to reflect paradise. Therefore the whole complex is breathtaking: gardens, fountains, streams outside, wonderful artistic details inside.

Why to go there?

The most famous example of Arabic architecture in Europe.

How to get there?

Get there quickly by foot from the city center.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Alhambra-Photo by Carlos Luque

Photo by Carlos Luque

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Alhambra-Photo by Cem Bayraktar

Photo by Cem Bayraktar

3. Nasir Al-Mulk Mosque, Shiraz, Iran

Built in 1888 it is considered to be a traditional mosque. However these incredible colored glass ornaments create a breathtaking site. When the sun shines through these windows, the whole space fills with elusive colorful light.

Why to go there?

Historic and architectural significance.

When to go there?

Early in the morning, when the angle of the sun rays creates this breathtaking site.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Nasir-Photo by Amin Abedini

Photo by Amin Abedini

2. Selimiye Mosque, Edirne, Turkey

Built in the 16th century, it is a famous Ottoman mosque, considered one of the best examples of Islamic architecture. Its clear design, elements and style have been praised until this day. The mosque is included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Why to go there?

A famous example of Islamic architecture, beautiful mosque and a popular tourist destination in Turkey.

How to get there?

Get to Edirne by car, train or bus from Istanbul or other cities. Get around by walking – everything in the center including the mosque is in walking distance.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Edirne

Photo by Unknown

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Edirne-Photo by cofff_seerup

Photo by cofff_seerup

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Comissioned by the late president of the UAE, the mosque’s task was to combine traditional values, architecture and design with the modern ones. The grandiose shrine literally unites the world: its construction material was brought from various, including non-Islamic, countries.

Why to go there?

Architectural, cultural and spiritual significance.

How to get there?

The best way to get around in Abu Dhabi is by taxis, that are quite cheap there.

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Abu Dhabi-Photo by WK Cheoh

Photo by WK Cheoh

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Abu Dhabi-Photo by Teguh S

Photo by Teguh S

Top 10 Arabic Architecture-Abu Dhabi-Photo by Bjorn Moerman

Photo by Bjorn Moerman