The History of Islamic Architecture: continuity Versus Chronological Categorization

Abstract

The history of Islamic architecture is divided into categories (periods) according to chronological order, where each category is named after a certain dynasty and where all buildings built in this period are named after that dynasty. But to attribute such buildings as products of that specific period may prove inadequate for deep understanding of a complex matter such as that of Islamic architecture. The focus of this paper is on the relevance of studying the history of Islamic architecture according to the well established chronological categorization of this architecture. The paper examines some of the key issues strongly related to the development of Islamic architecture and highlights some of the shortcomings of this system and influence on our perception and understanding of Islamic architecture.