Sahn

, surrounded by riwaq (arcades), in Tunisia A sahn ( , ) is a courtyard in Islamic architecture, especially the formal courtyard of a mosque. Most traditional mosques have a large central sahn, which is surrounded by a riwaq or arcade on all sides.

, surrounded by riwaq (arcades), in Tunisia]] A sahn ( , ) is a courtyard in Islamic architecture, especially the formal courtyard of a mosque. Most traditional mosques have a large central sahn, which is surrounded by a riwaq or arcade on all sides. ==Etymology== The word sahn ( ) means a courtyard in Arabic. But more commonly it means "plate", "dish". ==Form== The courtyard (sahn) of a mosque normally precedes and gives access to the interior prayer hall that stands on the qibla side (the side corresponding to the direction of prayer). Most mosque courtyards contained a public fountain where Muslims performed wudu, a ritual ablution (purification) required before prayer. The courtyard could be paved with stones or sometimes planted with trees. Historically, because of the warm Middle Eastern climate, the courtyard also served as overflow to accommodate the larger number of worshippers that came during Friday prayers. However, the hot climate could also make the outdoor space uncomfortable. As a result, arcades (rows of arches) that supported roofed galleries, known as riwaqs, were usually added around the other three sides in addition to the prayer hall side. ==See also== durqāʿa: central space in a building Index: Islamic architectural elements ==References==

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