Date of Award

1-1-2012

Thesis Type

masters

Document Type

Thesis

Divisions

built

Department

Faculty of Build Environment

Institution

University of Malaya

Abstract

Coral stone mosques of Maldives are ancient mosques assembled using finely shaped interlocking 'porite' coral stone from the reef, that have architectural features with coral carvings and detailed lacquer work. These mosques are among the earliest surviving buildings in the country where its cultural heritage is vanishing fast due to rapid changes and development. Little is known about these mosques, and the purpose of this research is to identify the surviving mosques, their state of condition, the influences in their evolution, and to establish a typology in terms of architectural features. The research uses qualitative research methods with multiple surveys and analysis and firstly identifies the surviving mosques and the state of their condition. The research finds that the Maldives government has 203 heritage sites in an unofficial list out of which 46 sites have 51 ancient mosques. The research also finds that 40 out of the 51 ancient mosques survive in different states of condition and 18 of them are confirmed as mosque made from coral stone. Secondly, the research identifies specific geo-cultural regions in the Indian Ocean that have influenced the evolution of the culture of Maldives and compares architectural features of these regions to those of the mosque. The research finds that different features of the mosque have similarities with structures in the South Asian region, the East African region, the Southeast Asian region and the Middle East and establishes that the mosques are a representation of the fusion of many maritime cultures of the Indian Ocean. Finally, 21 mosques are analyzed to identify typological architectural features establishing that the coral stone mosques of Maldives are a type of tropical mosque with a spatial plan form that has a simple rectangular or square prayer hall with a combination of antechambers called Dhaala, sometimes with a unique Mihrab Chamber. Typical architectural features include the raised coral stone platform, decorated rising steps, tiered roof form, coffered ceiling with recessed area called Laage', post and beam structure, unique arched sliding doors, diagonal lattice work on windows, special coral carvings, lacquer work and calligraphy. The research contributes to improve future protection and management of the mosques by raising the awareness about their uniqueness and the state of their condition.

Note

Dissertation submitted in fulfillment of the requirement for the Master of Science in Architecture

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