Muslim Achievements SOL 8D Cultural Contributions Copyright © Clara Kim 2007. All rights reserved.
Muslim Architecture
Cultural Blending It is in Architecture that the greatest cultural blending can be seen Already existing buildings were modified by Islamic Ideals Islamic Features: Multi-lobed interwoven arches Domes Minarets Large courtyards
Multi-lobed interwoven arches
Domes
Dome of the Rock Located in Jerusalem Rock in the center is believed to be the spot from where Muhammad ascended (rose) up to Heaven
Minarets Towers built from where Muslims are called to prayer 5 times a day
Large Courtyards
Mosaics Artwork created using tiny pieces of colored glass tiles Muslims use mosaics to create geometric decorations on Mosques
Arabic Alphabet Arabic was first used to translate the context of the Quran (The Holy Book of Islam) Written from Right to Left Made up of 28 letters
Arabic words in other languages 1000 plus in English 1000 plus in Spanish 1000 plus in Portuguese French Sicilian
Calligraphy Art of beautiful handwriting In Islam, showing living things in art was not allowed So artists turned to calligraphy to express themselves. Turn to page 247 in books
Universities Muhammad strongly believed in the power of learning This led to support of places of learning by Muslim Leaders Qualified physicians = treat the sick Mathematicians and Astronomers = Calculated times for prayer
Al-Azhar University 2nd oldest in the world Cairo, Egypt – 975 CE
Medicine Muslim physicians were among the first to use narcotic and sedative drugs in operations.
First True Hospitals Built by Muslims Read-An Islamic Hospital and discuss