Qasr al-Mshatta
Walid ibn Yazid, Caliph
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Alternative Titles
Qasr Mshatta
Qasr al Mshatta
Qasr el-Mshatta
Umayyad Palace
Description
As one of the largest and most impressive of the Umayyad palaces, the unfinished, tawny-toned limestone and brick complex at Qasr al-Mshatta includes an entrance hall, mosque, an audience hall, and residential quarters. It is located in the Jordan desert approximately 32 kilometers south of Amman, a short distance from the Queen Alia International Airport.
A product of the late Umayyad period, it is speculated by several scholars that the Umayyad caliph al-Walid II built Mshatta during his brief reign (743-44) in an effort to commemorate his authority. Construction concluded in 744 when he was assassinated. Massive in size-at 144 sq. meters-it provided accommodation for a large group of people for ceremonial performances and lodging. Byzantine and Sassanian influence is evident in the stone and brickwork, and its plan and design.
Source: Archnet exterior, view showing main elevation with entrance, 1992
Type of Work
PalaceSubject
Deserts, Palaces, Forts, Islam -- History, Jordan, Umayyad dynasty, Architecture, Domestic, Walid ibn Yazid, Caliph, d. 744, Qasrs, Architecture, Islamic --Jordan
Rights
Rights Statement
All rights reserved
Item is Part of
114890