Asked by Elena Cornejo on May 20, 2024
Verified
Which is the supposed precursor of hypostyle-designed mosques, such as the one at Kairouan?
A) Muhammad's house in Mecca
B) The Dome of the Rock
C) The madrasa of Baghdad
D) Muhammad's house in Medina
Hypostyle
A hall in ancient Egyptian architecture, characterized by many closely spaced columns that support the roof.
Muhammad's House
The historical residence of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, often referenced in studies of early Islamic architecture and the prophet's life.
Kairouan
A city in Tunisia, significant in Islamic history as a major center of Islamic scholarship and Quranic learning, hosting one of the oldest mosques in North Africa.
- Trace the development of mosque architecture from early examples to more complex structures.
Verified Answer
BW
Brady WoodwardMay 24, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
Muhammad's house in Medina is considered the precursor of hypostyle-designed mosques, including the one at Kairouan. This is because his house, which also served as a community center and a place of worship, featured a large courtyard surrounded by a covered area supported by columns, a layout that influenced the design of later mosques.
Learning Objectives
- Trace the development of mosque architecture from early examples to more complex structures.