Research Article

Modern and traditional representation in mosque architecture: Analytic comparison of three mosques in Ankara, Turkey

Volume: 6 Number: 2 July 17, 2023
TR EN

Modern and traditional representation in mosque architecture: Analytic comparison of three mosques in Ankara, Turkey

Abstract

This article examines three "modern" mosques in Ankara, the capital city of Turkey. Specifically, it researches examples of innovative and authentic mosque architecture, which considerably varies from "Ottoman-type" mosques that heavily dominate the inventory of mosques in Turkey. The Republican period after the Ottoman Empire in Turkey witnessed an ongoing discussion and competition between modern and traditional examples of mosque architecture. Although this problem has been considered in different dimensions, it has generally been discussed by classifying the mosques as "modern" or "traditional" in the academy. It is thought that this classification should be based on the different physical characteristics of mosques, which form the repertoire of tradition in mosque architecture. In this study, the exemplary mosques selected for the inquiry were examined according to 18 different factors that were grouped under six categories considering the physical and interior features of the mosques: namely, mass and facade design, spatial organization, interior forms, architectural program, material selection and ornament details. The research aims to contribute to discussing modern and traditional representation in mosque architecture and clarify ambiguity in understanding and distinguishing between "tradition," "traditional," and "modern," which are essential meanings in mosque architecture.

Keywords

References

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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

History and Theory of the Built Environment , Architecture , Interior Architecture , Architectural History, Theory and Criticism

Journal Section

Research Article

Publication Date

July 17, 2023

Submission Date

December 6, 2022

Acceptance Date

March 28, 2023

Published in Issue

Year 2023 Volume: 6 Number: 2

APA
Mertyürek, S., & Demırbas, G. U. (2023). Modern and traditional representation in mosque architecture: Analytic comparison of three mosques in Ankara, Turkey. GRID - Architecture Planning and Design Journal, 6(2), 745-773. https://doi.org/10.37246/grid.1215097

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