Arab-Islamic Civilization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Arab-Islamic Civilization - Essay Example The new contributions improved human life and also became the vital part of modern civilization in the history of humankind. Arab architecture is one of the greatest contributions that Arabic civilization brought in the history of man. Like in other fields, such as mathematics and astronomy, Arab architecture was invented for purposes of glorifying Islam. The architects of the time devoted much of their skills and time to the construction of mausoleums and mosques (American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, 1). Their style was quite unique; in spite of its being borrowed from the Romans, horseshow arch was redesigned into their own outstanding architectural feature. The construction of the Damascus Great Mosque is one of the excellent demonstrations of the utilization of Roman horse arch, which inspired Arab architecture. Many historians have argued that the Arab architectural design that was used in the construction of Ibin Tulun mosque in Cairo brought about the insight behind the construction of some of the European outstanding cathedrals. The Arab architecture was also evident in the construction of the chalets in France, as well as the cathedrals of Wells. These constructions used Arab ogee, tefoil, and cusp arches. In Europe, the construction of ribbed vaults was greatly inspired by the designs borrowed from the Arab mosques of Constantinople, Cairo, Jerusalem, Tripoli, Damascus, and Mecca, all of which were built during the reign of Islamic civilization. As for the construction of the cathedrals, the Europeans borrowed from the Arab architecture the use of cubal transitional supports, especially during the 11th and 12th century. Thus, the contribution of Islamic civilization in terms of architecture cannot be overemphasized. The contribution of Arab civilization in the field of architecture is quite evident even in modern day