Since its first publication, this superbly produced book has become the classic in its field. With contributions by sixteen eminent scholars, The Mosque traces the history and development of the mosque since the time of the Prophet Muhammad, explaining its traditional religious and teaching role in Muslim society as well as its architectural and decorative features. The physical form of the mosque is analysed and illustrated with plans, elevations and photographs, and its modern role as a religious and social institution is thoroughly reviewed. Contemporary mosques worldwide are discussed in a separate chapter, encompassing both those built by leading Muslim architects as well as Western architects. Richly illustrated with material drawn from a wide range of sources, this book provides comprehensive coverage of the architecture of the mosque, and serves as an invaluable guide to an understanding of the mosque's role throughout the world.