Religious architecture is often rich in ornament, but it is never purely decorative. In this unit, you will consider different types of religious architecture, paying particular attention to how the architecture serves religious rituals.
Using at least one example from chapter nine and one from chapter ten:
Compare and contrast Byzantine and Islamic architecture.
Describe the architecture and explain how its design facilitates specific worship practices.
In response to your peers, imagine visiting one of the buildings your classmate selected.
What do you think this experience would be like?
How do you picture yourself moving around the space?
Will you walk straight from the front door to the back of the room, or will you ambulate around the space in a circle?
What do you think the architectural design is doing to suggest this path?
Sample Solution
Byzantine and Islamic architecture are two distinct styles of religious architecture that developed in the Middle Ages. Both styles are known for their rich ornamentation and their use of geometry and symbolism to create a sense of awe and wonder. However, there are also some key differences between the two styles.
Byzantine architecture
Byzantine architecture is characterized by its use of domes, mosaics, and marble. The most famous example of Byzantine architecture is the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey. The Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century and served as the main church of the Byzantine Empire for nearly a thousand years.
Full Answer Section
The Hagia Sophia is a massive domed structure with a central plan. The dome is supported by four massive piers and is surrounded by a series of galleries and apses. The interior of the Hagia Sophia is decorated with stunning mosaics that depict biblical scenes and figures.
The design of the Hagia Sophia facilitates specific worship practices in a number of ways. First, the central plan of the building allows for a large number of people to gather together for worship. Second, the dome creates a sense of awe and wonder, which is fitting for a place of worship. Third, the mosaics provide visual inspiration and education for the worshippers.
Islamic architecture
Islamic architecture is characterized by its use of arches, domes, and minarets. The most famous example of Islamic architecture is the Great Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The Great Mosque of Mecca is the holiest site in Islam and is visited by millions of Muslims each year for the Hajj pilgrimage.
The Great Mosque of Mecca is a large rectangular structure with a central courtyard. The courtyard is surrounded by a series of arcades and galleries. In the center of the courtyard is the Kaaba, a black cube-shaped structure that is considered to be the holiest site in Islam.
The design of the Great Mosque of Mecca facilitates specific worship practices in a number of ways. First, the large courtyard allows for a large number of people to gather together for worship. Second, the arcades and galleries provide shade and shelter from the sun. Third, the Kaaba is the focus of the mosque's design and serves as a rallying point for worshippers.
Comparison and contrast
Both Byzantine and Islamic architecture are characterized by their use of domes, arches, and rich ornamentation. However, there are also some key differences between the two styles. Byzantine architecture tends to be more centralized and monumental, while Islamic architecture is more open and flowing. Byzantine architecture also makes greater use of mosaics, while Islamic architecture makes greater use of calligraphy.
Another key difference between Byzantine and Islamic architecture is their use of light. Byzantine architecture is known for its use of natural light, which creates a sense of awe and wonder. Islamic architecture, on the other hand, is known for its use of artificial light, which creates a more intimate and spiritual atmosphere.
Imagine visiting one of the buildings
If I were to visit the Hagia Sophia, I imagine that I would be awestruck by its sheer size and grandeur. I would walk slowly through the central space, admiring the mosaics and the intricate stonework. I would take my time to explore the different galleries and apses, and I would try to imagine what it would have been like to worship in this space centuries ago.
If I were to visit the Great Mosque of Mecca, I imagine that I would be overwhelmed by the sheer number of people and the sense of community. I would walk slowly around the courtyard, following the flow of the crowd. I would stop to pray at the Kaaba and to reflect on the significance of this holy site.
Conclusion
Byzantine and Islamic architecture are two distinct styles of religious architecture that developed in the Middle Ages. Both styles are known for their rich ornamentation and their use of geometry and symbolism to create a sense of awe and wonder. However, there are also some key differences between the two styles. Byzantine architecture tends to be more centralized and monumental, while Islamic architecture is more open and flowing. Byzantine architecture also makes greater use of mosaics, while Islamic architecture makes greater use of calligraphy.
The design of both Byzantine and Islamic architecture facilitates specific worship practices. The central plan of Byzantine churches allows for a large number of people to gather together for worship. The dome creates a sense of awe and wonder, and the mosaics provide visual inspiration and education for the worshippers. The large courtyard of the Great Mosque of Mecca allows for a large number of people to gather together for worship. The arcades and galleries provide shade and shelter from the sun, and the Kaaba is the focus of the mosque's design and serves as a rallying point for worshippers.