THE ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURAL MONUMENTS IN KOSOVO DURING XVI – XVIII CENTURIES

Abstract

This article aims to shed light on the construction of architectural monuments in Kosovo as early as the XVI-XVIII centuries, especially Islamic architecture. This style of construction, influenced by the eastern part of the continent, had its own construction features, which set it apart from other constructions built before Islam. Those features reached Albanian areas after the Ottoman Empire conquered them. This type of architecture expressed religious aspects in mosques and prayer facilities, but bridges, markets, shrines, and other objects were also constructed. The research results indicated that Ottoman architectural features were influenced by local traditional elements. A specific model was produced and used in all Albanian areas under Ottoman rule. Secondly, over time numerous objects were built following this model. As a result, cities and lives were changed. A comparative research methodology besides analysis and synthesis was followed to elaborate this paper, using relevant literature.