Sacred Spaces: The Evolving Architecture of Makkah
Discover the story of Makkah’s architecture — a city shaped by faith, geography, and human ingenuity. In this illustrated lecture, Dr Adnan Adas explores how Makkah’s urban design evolved from early Islamic settlements into the thriving spiritual and architectural heart of the Muslim world.
Set against its mountainous terrain and arid climate, Makkah’s architecture has always reflected both practicality and purpose. As centuries of pilgrims and cultures converged, the city’s buildings adapted — blending local materials, traditional craftsmanship, and sacred symbolism to serve the needs of worshippers from across the globe.
From ancient dwellings and courtyard houses to the modern expansion of the Masjid al-Haram, the city’s form tells a powerful story of resilience, devotion, and community. Join Dr Adas as he reveals how Islamic architecture, environmental design, and collective memory come together to express the sanctity of Makkah — a city where every stone and street carries a story of faith. #MakkahArchitecture #IslamicArchitecture #UrbanDesign #SacredCities #CulturalHeritage
About the Speaker
Dr Adnan Adas
Born in Makkah, Dr Adnan Adas holds a PhD in architecture and is a distinguished expert in urban and architectural heritage. He serves on the boards of Saudi ICOMOS and the Medad Foundation for Culture, Islamic Arts and Heritage, advancing the preservation of cultural identity and historic landscapes.
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