MODERN TRENDS IN MOSQUE ARCHITECTURE: THE PROBLEM OF PRESERVING OF CULTURAL IDENTITY

The article analyzes the main architectural features of traditional mosques and the specific features of modern mosques in different countries. The absence of strict canons defined by religious texts allows architects to freely interpret the plasticity and image of the building. New social challenges, the possibilities of modern structures and technologies inspired architects to abandon the historical and neoclassical models that dominated the national religious architecture. Architects rethink not only the form of the mosque, but also its functions, planning solutions, decor and ornaments. Trends of globalization of mosque architecture have been identified. The objects built in the 21st century are characterized by visual and social openness, they serve as a public center, for which the adjacent space is also used. The plasticity of the building resembles sculpture; the composition has vertical development; facades and plans are dynamic and asymmetrical. Ornaments and fonts on the facade and in the interior become the main means indicating the building's belonging to Islamic culture.