The Great Mosque of Tlemcen and the dome of its maqṣūra

Abstract

The aim of this article is to study some aspects of the Great Mosque of Tlemcen based on a planimetrical survey that has recently been carried out on its most outstanding features, particularly the area of the miḥrāb and the maqṣūra . It provides observations on this significant monument from Almoravid times that relate to its analysis by means of drawings. In spite of the fact that it is considered to be one of the most emblematic buildings of Western Islamic art of the 12th Century, only general ground plans have been published up until now, mostly schematic ones, and a few detailed drawings. The plans that we are publishing enable us to comprehend to a greater extent this remarkable building that is set out in comparison with other examples, and especially with regard to the vaults of intertwined arches.