Architectural and Decorative Styles of the Mosques in the Old City of Tripoli during the First Ottoman Period (1551–1711)

Abstract

Mosques in Old Tripoli during the First Ottoman period featured distinctive architectural and decorative styles. This study highlights these characteristics through an analysis of their architectural design and the diversity of their ornamentation. The aim of this research is to examine the architectural and decorative patterns of the mosques of Old Tripoli during the First Ottoman period, and to assess the extent of their architectural and artistic distinction. Their key architectural elements include various ornament types—vegetal (plant) motifs, geometric designs, and calligraphic/inscriptive decoration. These decorations were executed on different materials such as stone, marble, or plaster. In addition, many of the entrances are crowned by foundation plaques containing numerous historical, economic, political, and social details relevant to that era. In terms of methodology, this study adopts the historical approach and the descriptive analytical method. Among its main findings is the identification of the architectural and artistic patterns of the mosques of the First Ottoman period in Old Tripoli. The research also corrects some texts on the foundation plaques that had previously been reported by earlier historians. Finally, this study contributes valuable information to researchers and students in faculties of archaeology, fine arts, and architecture by providing key and significant facts about the architectural and artistic patterns of the mosques of the First Ottoman period.