Скачать или смотреть Ancient Tower of Worship: The Great Mosque of Samarra

The Great Mosque of Samarra, located in the Iraqi city of Samarra, stands as a remarkable symbol of Islamic architecture. Built between 848 and 851 CE during the Abbasid Caliphate under Caliph Al-Mutawakkil, it was once the largest mosque in the world, showcasing the wealth and influence of the Islamic Golden Age.

Its most iconic feature is the Malwiya Minaret, a 52-meter-high spiral tower resembling a giant staircase. Originally constructed for the call to prayer, the minaret’s innovative design reflects the architectural brilliance of the Abbasid era. A bridge once connected it to the mosque, allowing the muezzin to ascend and deliver prayers from its peak.

Covering 17 hectares, the mosque was enclosed by a massive brick wall with 44 semicircular towers. Inside, rows of columns supported a vast prayer hall, accommodating thousands of worshippers. Although much of the structure has eroded over time due to invasions and natural decay, its towering minaret and remaining walls still convey the grandeur of its past.

This architectural masterpiece exemplifies the Abbasid commitment to blending functionality with artistic expression, influencing mosque design across the Islamic world. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Mosque of Samarra continues to celebrate the cultural and religious achievements of the Abbasid Caliphate, preserving its legacy for future generations.

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