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Maqsura


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257615

Maqsura

Maqsura is a term used in Islamic architecture to refer to a separate, screened off space within a mosque or other religious building. The term maqsura is derived from the Arabic word qasr, which means palace or castle. The maqsura is typically located near the mihrab, which is a niche in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca. The maqsura is often reserved for the use of the ruler or other important members of the community, and is usually marked off by a physical barrier such as a wall or a screen. The maqsura was an important architectural feature of many Islamic buildings and reflects the importance of distinction and privacy in Islamic culture. It was often used as a space for private prayer or to receive important visitors. The maqsura was also used to separate the ruler or other important members of the community from the rest of the congregation during prayer. The design of the maqsura varied depending on the region and the time period. In some cases, the maqsura was a simple enclosure with a low wall and a platform for prayer. In other cases, the maqsura was a more elaborate structure with intricate carvings and decorations. Overall, the maqsura is an important part of Islamic architecture and reflects the cultural values of the Islamic world. It is a testament to the importance of privacy and distinction in Islamic culture, and continues to be an important part of mosque designs around the world today.

Islamic architecture, mosque, mihrab, ruler, privacy

— Richard White

CITATION : "Richard White. 'Maqsura.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/maqsura?E=257615 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"

234419

Maqsura

The Maqsura is a type of architectural feature commonly seen in traditional Islamic architecture. This feature is a section of a mosque that is reserved for the exclusive use of the ruler and his entourage. This area is usually marked off by a physical barrier, such a wall or a screen, and is usually located at the front of the mosque. The purpose of the Maqsura is to provide a private area for the ruler to pray and to receive visitors without being disturbed by the rest of the congregation. The Maqsura has been an important part of Islamic architecture since the early days of the religion and continues to be a key part of mosque designs around the world today.

Privacy, Screen, Barrier, Ruler, Congregation

— Michael Adams

234414

Maqsura

Maaqsura, derived from the Arabic language, is a term used in Islamic architecture to refer to a separate, screened off space within a mosque or other religious building. It typically features a low wall, with a platform for prayer, and a niche for the mihrab, which is traditionally aligned towards the direction of Mecca. The term is also used to refer to a separate space within a palace in which the caliph or sultan was separated from the rest of the court. This space was usually marked out by a low wall and was used for private meetings or to receive important visitors. Maaqsura is an important architectural feature of many Islamic buildings and reflects the importance of distinction and privacy in Islamic culture.

Privacy, Separation, Screening, Wall, Mihrab.

— Shelly Stone


Maqsura Definition

Maqsura on Design+Encyclopedia

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