The Impact of Physical Components of Historical Mosque Architecture on the Identity of Contemporary Mosques

Abstract

This study was conducted with the aim of examining the impact of physical architectural components, including form, spatial geometry, light, materials, and ornamentation, on the identity characteristics of contemporary mosques. The research also focuses on developing an analytical understanding of the relationship between physical design, human experience, and cultural memory in the formation of mosque spatial identity. The present study adopts a qualitative, comparative, and analytical approach. Four case studies were examined, including two historical mosques (Imam Mosque and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque in Isfahan) and two contemporary mosques (Shahrak-e Gharb Grand Mosque in Tehran as a domestic example and Cologne Central Mosque in Germany as an international example). Data were extracted through field analysis, architectural documentation, and library sources, and were evaluated using a comparative analysis method focusing on physical elements and user experience. The comparative analysis revealed that coherence among form, spatial geometry, light, materials, and ornamentation, together with attention to users’ lived experience and cultural memory, plays a key role in shaping the spatial, spiritual, and cultural identity of mosques. Traditional mosques create a multilayered experience of presence, belonging, and spirituality, whereas some contemporary mosques, due to the elimination or superficial reproduction of traditional elements, have limited user experience and primarily focused on functional and visual aspects. Furthermore, the findings emphasize that the intelligent integration of modernity with meaning-oriented and experience-based traditional elements enables the creation of identity-rich and sustainable spaces. Successful architecture in the domain of contemporary mosques is not merely the reproduction of forms, but rather the placement of meaning, human experience, and cultural memory at the core of design. Therefore, the creative reinterpretation of traditional elements, combined with the intelligent use of modern technologies and materials, is a fundamental condition for creating human-centered, meaningful, and identity-oriented spaces. This approach, in addition to enhancing spatial quality and aesthetics, strengthens the connection between society, culture, and spirituality and provides a practical model for the design of contemporary religious spaces.