A pulpit at the head of a staircase; the Prophet and the first caliphs preached from the Minbar but many imams preach from one of the steps as a sign of respect.
Mihrab
Empty niche in the Qibla wall indicating the direction of Mecca.
door
Muslims remove their shoes before entering the mosque and always enter right foot first.
Qibla wall
The wall that faces Mecca, the direction Muslims face to pray.
central nave
The mosque’s principal nave; it adjoins the Mihrab.
Mihrab dome
Dome decorating the back of the central nave near the Mihrab.
direction of Mecca
Mecca: the religious capital of Islam is located in Saudi Arabia; Muslim prayers are always performed facing Mecca.
fortified wall
Fortification that once protected inhabitants seeking refuge inside the mosque during conflicts.
courtyard
Uncovered space bordered by the shady arcades; the ablutions fountain is located in the center of it.
ablutions fountain
Fountain that Muslims use to wash and symbolically purify certain parts of their bodies before entering the prayer hall.
reception hall
Large room used to greet visitors.
shady arcades
Gallery made up of a series of arches supported by columns.
minaret
Tower from which the call to prayer is made five times per day.
service room
porch
Covered entrance to the central nave.
prayer hall
Area made up of several naves and covered with rugs; Muslims remove their shoes to pray.
