Islam, Catholicism & E. Orthodoxy architecture 300-725CE

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You have asked for some assistance in choosing three architectural designs from the religions of Islam, Catholicism, and Eastern Orthodoxy between 300-725 C.E. You are also asking that the importance of the three chosen structures to their respective religions be discussed.

Below, I have included three structures along with clarification and further detail on the architectural elements of said structures related to their geographic location within the context of Byzantium.

In order to answer the assignment question, it is necessary to address the physical location of these structures and the geography's symbolism within the religions that defined the areas during the rise and fall of the Byzantine Empire.

These structures have complex histories, mainly due to the different religious conquests that occurred during the Byzantine period, as well as throughout history.

1. The Dome of the Rock, located in Jerusalem is the focal point of three major religious sects, Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Therefore, the very geographical location lends itself to different interpretations by each of these religions. The actual rock that is being venerated was believed by these religions to be worthy of a monumental structure to enclose the sacred space. The rock has been viewed by followers of Judaism as the tomb of Adam, as well as the location of where Abraham received the order from God to sacrifice Isaac. Yet, in Islam, the geographical location of the Dome of the Rock is said to be where Mohammed ascended into heaven (though Muslims made this claim after the Dome was built). Christians view the Dome of the Rock as a holy place and one of the first Christian Churches. Because of these different views from the different religions, the present architectural structure has design elements that reflect both Islamic and early Christian architecture. Situated in Jerusalem, a holy city that all three ...