What were some major influences on the development of Muslim architecture?

A.Islamic literature and poetry
B.Chinese cultural practices
C.Roman and Byzantine architectural styles**
D.Coptic religious practices

The correct answer is C. Roman and Byzantine architectural styles.

To find the answer to this question, we can start by understanding the historical context and influence on Muslim architecture. Muslim architecture developed over centuries, influenced by various factors and cultural interactions.

One major influence on the development of Muslim architecture was the influence of Roman and Byzantine architectural styles. When Muslim conquerors took over areas previously ruled by the Roman and Byzantine Empires, they were exposed to the existing architectural styles and techniques. These styles played a significant role in shaping early Muslim architecture.

The adoption and adaptation of Roman and Byzantine architecture can be seen in various elements, such as the use of domes, vaults, columns, and arches. These architectural features later became prominent in Islamic architecture, as seen in structures like the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem and the Great Mosque of Cordoba in Spain.

Islamic literature and poetry (option A) did not directly influence the development of Muslim architecture; instead, they played a role in influencing Islamic culture, arts, and calligraphy.

Chinese cultural practices (option B) did not have a significant impact on Muslim architecture, as Muslim architectural styles primarily developed in regions influenced by the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures.

Coptic religious practices (option D) did not influence Muslim architecture extensively, as Coptic Christianity has its own distinct architectural traditions separate from Islamic architecture.

Therefore, among the given options, the major influence on the development of Muslim architecture was C. Roman and Byzantine architectural styles.

The major influences on the development of Muslim architecture include:

C. Roman and Byzantine architectural styles: The early Muslim conquests brought them into contact with the architectural styles of the Byzantine Empire and the Roman Empire. The Muslim architects incorporated elements such as domes, vaults, and mosaics into their own designs. This influence can be seen in the iconic domes of mosques, such as the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem.

A. Islamic literature and poetry: Islamic literature and poetry, particularly the descriptions of paradise and gardens in the Quran and other Islamic texts, influenced the design and layout of Islamic architecture. This led to the creation of gardens and courtyards within mosque complexes, reflecting the Islamic concept of paradise on earth.

D. Coptic religious practices: The Coptic Christian communities in Egypt had their own unique architectural traditions. Muslim architects in Egypt were influenced by Coptic churches and adapted some of their architectural features for Islamic religious structures, such as the use of arches and columns.

While B. Chinese cultural practices did not directly influence Muslim architecture, there were some limited interactions between the Islamic and Chinese cultures, particularly during the Mongol rule in the 13th and 14th centuries. However, the influence of Chinese cultural practices on Muslim architecture was not significant compared to the other influences mentioned above.