What architectural achievements are attributed to the ‘Abbasid dynasty?

The ‘Abbasid dynasty is credited with the construction of the city of Baghdad, the Round City, and the Great Mosque of Samarra.

The ‘Abbasid dynasty, which ruled from 750 to 1258 AD, was a period of significant architectural innovation and development in the Islamic world. The dynasty's most notable architectural achievement was the construction of the city of Baghdad. The city was founded by the second ‘Abbasid caliph, Al-Mansur, in 762 AD and was designed as a circular city, known as the Round City. This was a unique urban design concept at the time, with the city's layout reflecting the ‘Abbasid's cosmological beliefs and political ideology. The city was divided into sectors, with the caliph's palace and the Great Mosque at the centre, symbolising the unity of religious and political power.

Another significant architectural achievement of the ‘Abbasid dynasty was the Great Mosque of Samarra. Constructed during the reign of Caliph Al-Mutawakkil (847-861 AD), the mosque is one of the largest in the world and is renowned for its distinctive spiral minaret, the Malwiya Tower. The mosque's design reflects the ‘Abbasid's innovative use of brick and their mastery of complex geometric patterns, which became a hallmark of Islamic architecture.

The ‘Abbasid dynasty also made significant contributions to the development of architectural technology. They introduced new construction techniques, such as the use of baked brick and the development of complex vaulting systems. These innovations allowed for the construction of larger and more complex structures, and had a lasting impact on the development of Islamic architecture.

In addition to these major projects, the ‘Abbasid dynasty also oversaw the construction of numerous palaces, mosques, and public buildings throughout their empire. These structures, many of which have unfortunately been lost to history, were renowned for their intricate decoration and the use of luxurious materials, reflecting the wealth and power of the ‘Abbasid caliphs. Overall, the architectural achievements of the ‘Abbasid dynasty played a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic and technological development of Islamic architecture.