The Contemporary Identity of the Architectural Design in the Great Mosque of Algeria

Abstract

Objectives: This research paper deals with the issue of the contemporary identity of the architectural design in the Great Mosque of Algeria, which represents a sign of the future through the use of advanced building materials. The contemporary trend in the construction of the Great Mosque of Algeria made us wonder whether the identity of the cultural heritage of the ancient mosques was considered in its architecture. This research paper aims to clarify the continuity between heritage and historical traditions in the architecture of this contemporary mosque. Methods: A comparative method was followed, which focused on the identity of the architectural character of the architectural elements that make up the planning system of the Great Mosque of Algeria, and the extent of the impact of heritage on the emergence of this contemporary mosque. Results:. The results confirmed the impact of the historical heritage on the architectural character of the Great Mosque of Algeria, including spatial elements, such as the prayer hall and the courtyard, and the identity of the architectural elements that make up the Mosque, such as the mihrab, the pulpit, the minaret and the dome. Conclusions: This corresponds to the design direction of the Mosque’s architecture, the direction of belonging. The Mosque is linked to the vocabulary of Islamic architecture and preserves the identity of its architectural character.