UNIVERSITY OF THE EAST

Samson Road, Caloocan City

COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS, ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN

In partial fulfillment of the requirements in

FAR 2105 - History of Architecture 3
1st Semester A.Y. 2023

A Research Work:

Mughal or Indo-Islamic, Sino-Islamic Architecture, &

Sub-Saharan African Islamic Architecture

Submitter By:
GUZMAN, MARK DEAN R.
BS Architecture / Second Year
ARCH 2A

Submitted To:
Ar. Marvin E. Butchayo
FAR 2105 - History of Architecture 3 Instructor
MUGHAL OR INDO-ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE

Mughal architecture, also known as Indo-Islamic architecture, is a distinctive style that

emerged in the Indian subcontinent during the Mughal dynasty reign from the early 16th
to the mid-19th century. This architectural style is a synthesis of Persian, Islamic, Turkish
and Indian influences, resulting in the creation of iconic structures that showcase a
harmonious blend of diverse cultural elements.

Key features of the Mughal architecture include grandeur or elegance, symmetry,

intricate ornamentation, and a balance between aesthetic and functional considerations.
The Mughal emperors were patrons of art and architecture, and they left behind a
legacy of magnificent structures that continue to captivate people’s imagination
today.One of the most renowned examples of Mughal Architecture is the Taj Mahal, built
by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. This marble
mausoleum is celebrated for its exquisite detailing, symmetrical layout, and stunning
use of white marble and precious stones. The Humayun's Tomb in Delhi is another
iconic structure, often considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal, showcasing the
prominent use of red sandstone and white marble in a garden setting. Mughal
architecture is characterized by its impressive domes, chhatris (ornamental pavilions),
arches, minarets, and intricate jali (lattice) work. The fusion of Islamic geometric
patterns with Hindu-inspired motifs, such as lotus and peacock designs, is a hallmark of
this style. Additionally, the use of the pishtaq (projecting façade) and iwan (arched
portal) is evident in several Mughal structures.

In summary, Mughal architecture is a remarkable testament to the cultural diversity and

artistic brilliance of the Indian subcontinent during the Mughal era. The fusion of Islamic
and Indian architectural traditions gave rise to structures of unparalleled beauty and
significance, leaving an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of India.
MUGHAL OR INDO-ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE

Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, a masterpiece of Mughal
architecture, was constructed by Emperor Shah
Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Located in Agra, India, this white marble
mausoleum is renowned for its symmetrical layout,
intricate marble inlay work, and iconic central
dome.

Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi is a precursor to the Taj
Mahal and a classic example of Mughal
architecture. Commissioned by Empress Bega
Begum for her husband Emperor Humayun, this
16th - century tomb features a combination of
redstone and white marble, intricate detailing, and
a garden setting. Its elegant design with central
dome and chhatris has influenced later.

Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri, near Agra, was the capital of the
Mughal Empire under Emperor Akbar. A UNESCO
World Heritage Site, it showcases the integration of
Mughal and regional architectural styles. The
Buland Darwaza, a grand entrance, the Panch
Mahal, a multi-level palace, and the Diwan-i-Khas,
a hall for private audiences, exemplify Mughal
architectural splendor within a historical context.
SINO-ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE

Sino-Islamic architecture, also known as Chinese Islamic architecture, is a remarkable

testament to the synthesis of two distinct cultural and architectural traditions: Islamic
and Chinese. It represents a harmonious blending of these two worlds, resulting in a
unique architectural style that can be predominantly found in regions of China with
significant Muslim populations, such as Xinjiang, Ningxia, Gansu, and Yunnan. THis
style is a product of centuries of cultural exchange and trade along the historical Silk
Road.

Characterized by its fusion of Islamic and Chinese architectural features, Sino-Islamic

architecture showcases a captivating blend of elements. Islamic influences are evident
in features like domes, arches, and intricate calligraphy, while Chinese architectural
elements, such as upturned eaves, pagodas, and intricate wood carvings, contribute to
the distinctive visual identity of this style. This architectural amalgamation serves as a
testament to the rich interplay of cultural and artistic influences between the Islamic
world and China.

One of the most intriguing features of Sino-Islamic architecture is the seamless

integration of minarets and pagodas. Minarets, integral to Islamic architecture for the
call to prayer, are merged with the traditional Chinese pagoda structure. This merging
creates a functional and aesthetically pleasing combination that represents both cultural
traditions. Additionally, vibrant ceramic tiles adorned with geometric patterns and
calligraphy are often used, reflecting the artistic sensibilities of both cultures. The Great
Mosque of Xi’an, dating back to the Tang dynasty, is an exceptional example of
Sino-Islamic architecture. It beautifully showcases the interplay between Islamic and
Chinese architecture aesthetics. The mosque’s layout, design, and structural elements
are visual manifestations that have occurred over the centuries. THis historical site
stands as a living testament to the deep connections between China and the Islamic
world.
SINO-ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE

The Great Mosque of Xi’an

The Great Mosque of Xi’an, built during the Tang
dynasty, exemplifies the fusions of Islamic and
Chinese architectural styles. With its traditional
Chinese courtyard layout, pagoda-style minarets,
and intricate calligraphy, the mosque reflects the
cross-cultural influences that have shaped its
design.

Id Kah Mosque
Located in Kashgar, the Id Kah Mosque is one of the
largest mosques in China and a prime example of
Sino-Islamic architecture. Its vast courtyard, wooden
pillars, and traditional Chinese-style roofs combine
with Islamic features like minarets and calligraphy to
create a captivating architectural blend.

Jingxin Zhai Mosque

The Jingxin Zhai Mosque, situated in Pingliang,
showcases the unique integration of Chinese and
Islamic architectural elements. Its distinct
multi-eaved roofs, similar to traditional Chinese
temples, are combined with Islamic-styles arches
and geometric patterns, exemplifying the
harmonious fusion of cultures.
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN ARCHITECTURE

Sub-Saharan African architecture represents the diverse and rich array of building
styles, techniques, and traditions found across the vast geographical region of
Sub-Saharan Africa. This architectural heritage is rooted in both historical practices and
the dynamic evolution of societies, cultures, and environments over millennia. The
architecture of Sub-Saharan Africa is a testament to the ingenious ways in which
different communities have adapted to their surroundings, employed local materials,
and crafted structures that are both functional and aesthetically significant. The region's
architecture is marked by a remarkable variety of forms and construction methods,
owing to the multitude of ethnic groups, languages, and cultural practices found within
Sub-Saharan Africa. Traditional African architecture often emphasizes the relationship
between the built environment and the natural world, with structures often blending
harmoniously into their landscapes. The use of organic materials such as wood, thatch,
mud, and stone is common, and these materials are employed to create everything from
humble huts to grand palaces.One notable architectural style is the "compound" or
"courtyard" arrangement, which is prevalent in many Sub-Saharan cultures. In this
design, a central open area is surrounded by living spaces, storage rooms, and other
functional structures. The compounds often serve as microcosms of the social structure,
reflecting familial relationships and social hierarchies. These compounds can vary
greatly in size and complexity, from small rural homesteads to more intricate urban
layouts.

The Great Mosque of Djenné in Mali is an iconic example of Sub-Saharan African

architecture. Constructed primarily from sun-baked mud bricks, the mosque's distinct
architectural features include its monumental earthen walls adorned with intricate
designs, and its tapering minarets. The use of mud as a building material demonstrates
the ingenious ways in which local resources are harnessed to create lasting and visually
stunning structures. These buildings showcase the fusion of indigenous building
techniques with Islamic architectural influences brought to the region through trade and
scholarship.
SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN ARCHITECTURE

Great Mosque of Djenné

The Great Mosque of Djenné, located in Mali, is
one of the most iconic structures in Sub-Saharan
Africa. It is renowned for its unique adobe
architecture, featuring intricately patterned walls
and towering minarets. The mosque exemplifies
the blend of Islamic and traditional West African
architectural styles. It is considered the largest
mud-brick building in the world
Gedi Ruins
The Gedi Ruins, located in Kenya, are the
remains of a Swahili coastal town that flourished
from the 13th to the 17th centuries. The
structures at Gedi include houses, mosques,
tombs, and elaborate stone carvings. The town's
architecture demonstrates a blend of African,
Arab, and Indian influences, reflecting its position
as a hub of trade and cultural exchange along the
Swahili coast.

Ouadane Mosque
The Ouadane Mosque is located in the ancient town
of Ouadane, Mauritania. This mosque, built in the
16th century, is an exceptional example of Saharan
adobe architecture. Its distinctive appearance
includes a square minaret tower and a prayer hall
with a central courtyard.