The minaret is later (completion in 1196), is more decorated: we notice in particular an important work of interlaced arches (sebka). It is surmounted by three golden copper balls which would symbolize the three mosques of Islam Kaaba (Mecca), Medina, and Jerusalem. It served, among other things, as a model for the Giralda in Seville.
The external decoration of the minaret is different on the four sides: painting on plaster with floral and epigraphic ornaments, network of interlacing in relief where the paintings are interspersed, headband of earthenware with white net on a turquoise background, sometimes intertwined arcades. It is built in schistose sandstone originating from the Guéliz quarries. Admirably proportioned: 12.80 on a side for 69 in height with the skylight (77 m to the tip of the arrow), with an exterior wall of 2.50 m. In the center of the tower, an outer core houses six superimposed rooms. Around it, a gently sloping ramp leads to the walkway.
The platform is surrounded by a walkway protected by a jagged balustrade of merlons. The lantern, 16 m high, appears as a second minaret placed on the first. It is surmounted by a metal rod to which are attached four golden balls of decreasing size, the largest being 6 m in diameter. They are made of gilded copper plates riveted together.
I agree to the terms outlined below:
You agree to upload and assign Mosqpedia Database the rights to use the content worldwide and in perpetuity across all current and future media platforms. Mosqpedia Database may edit, copy, adapt and translate your contribution.
The content will be distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Deed – Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International – Creative Commons
All data will be stored in line with data protection regulations.
I agree to the terms outlined below:
You agree to upload and assign Mosqpedia Database the rights to use the content worldwide and in perpetuity across all current and future media platforms. Mosqpedia Database may edit, copy, adapt and translate your contribution.
The content will be distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Deed – Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International – Creative Commons
All data will be stored in line with data protection regulations.