Lighting in mosques and places of pilgrimage plays an important role in their architectural design. The greatest use of light in such places is related to the interior space and courtyards. Since mosques and places of pilgrimage are spiritual spaces where people go for secret and need, the light should shine in such a way that it creates a relaxing atmosphere and at the same time does not cause problems for people’s vision. Due to the importance of this issue, in this article from EDC, we intend to provide you with some tips on lighting in places of pilgrimage and mosques so that you can create a spiritual atmosphere by knowing them.
Principles of Lighting in Mosques and Places of Pilgrimage
Lighting of mosques and places of pilgrimage, in addition to its religious use, also has cultural values. The purpose of lighting such places is to create a relaxing and spiritual atmosphere that inspires a sense of spirituality. The most important principles that should be considered in lighting mosques include architectural details, the use of soft and warm lights, and the avoidance of harsh and dazzling lights.
For mosque lighting, the use of focused lights to highlight the altar and pulpit is very important. In addition, lighting the mosque minaret and dome can create a magnificent effect at night.
In places of pilgrimage, in addition to creating sufficient lighting, lighting should also provide a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
The use of hidden and soft lights, as well as lighting around places of pilgrimage, can be effective in creating this feeling.
Lighting of different parts of mosques and pilgrimage sites
In each part of mosques and pilgrimage sites, the type of lighting and lights used are different and include the following:
Lighting of the mihrab and pulpit
Since the mihrab and pulpit are the two focal points of the mosque, concentrated and prominent lighting should be used for them. Spot lights or spotlights with warm and soft light can show the details of these parts well. Also, to create a more spiritual and spiritual effect, hidden lighting can be used behind the mihrab and pulpit. Lighting in such parts should be such that, in addition to emphasizing the importance of these parts, it does not cause any disturbance or glare for worshipers.
Lighting of domes and minarets
The dome and minarets create a magnificent effect at night. Using LED projectors with soft colored lights will make these parts more beautiful and pleasing to the eye. For the inside of the dome, you can go for hidden lights and soft lights to have a spiritual and spiritual atmosphere. In the lighting of the minarets, you should also use lights that both provide sufficient lighting and prevent light pollution.
Shabestan Lighting
In the nave, which is the main space of mosques, uniform and soft lighting should be used. Ceiling lights with their warm and diffused light can provide illumination for this area. Also, to create a more relaxing atmosphere, you can use indoor wall lights and pendants.
Courtyard and Area Lighting
The courtyard and grounds play a key role in creating an inviting and safe atmosphere at night. Park lights and pillars are sufficient to provide lighting for these areas. String lights can also be used to illuminate paths and trees.
Lighting for Pilgrimage Sites
In pilgrimage sites, the use of hidden and soft lights, as well as lighting around the shrine, can create a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. In addition, the use of large chandeliers inside pilgrimage sites will create grandeur and grandeur.
Different Lighting Techniques for Mosques and Pilgrimage Sites
For lighting inside and outside the mosque, it is essential to observe specific tips and techniques to create a peaceful atmosphere. Some of these key techniques and points include the following:
Appropriate Light Intensity
The light intensity in such spaces should be at a level that, in addition to providing adequate lighting, does not disturb the vision of worshipers and pilgrims. Soft and uniform light should be used for the nave and main spaces, and focused and prominent light should be used for the altar and pulpit. In general, it is recommended that the light intensity in such spaces be lower than in commercial and office spaces to create a calm and spiritual atmosphere.
In the article “Lighting Parameters”, get acquainted with all the parameters.
Appropriate Light Temperature
The color temperature of light is another important factor in creating the desired mood and feeling in any space. Warm lights with a low temperature (2700 to 3000 Kelvin) induce a sense of intimacy and warmth and are very suitable for spiritual spaces. This is while cold lights with a high temperature (4000 Kelvin and above) are more suitable for office spaces and commercial lighting and are not recommended for religious places; the reason is that they convey a sense of coldness and soullessness.
Accent lighting
Accent lighting can be used to highlight important architectural and decorative elements of mosques and places of pilgrimage. Spot lights, as well as focused lights, will highlight the altar, pulpit, dome, minarets, and other important components.
Pay attention to architecture and culture
In lighting mosques and places of pilgrimage, it is very important to pay attention to the architecture, culture, and spiritual values of each place. Lighting in such places should be consistent with the architecture and cultural identity of the place and enhance its spiritual feel and mood.
Important points when installing lighting equipment in mosques and places of pilgrimage
- The lighting of the exterior of the mosque should be such that it shows the mosque well from a distance and can enhance the three-dimensional image of the building.
- The main colors for lighting such places include white and yellow. Green and turquoise blue are also used decoratively and as a complement.
- It is better to light the entrances of mosques on both sides so that the path for movement is clear.
- The light shining on the spires makes them visible from a distance and increases the beauty of the building.
- For lighting pilgrimage sites and mosques, it is better to use lights that display light evenly.
- If you plan to use chandeliers in pilgrimage sites, it is better to go for products with durable parts and reliable installation capabilities to ensure the longevity of the chandelier and the security of the pilgrimage space.
Examples of lighting in famous mosques
The following are examples of lighting in famous mosques:
Lighting in Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
The lighting of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, one of the architectural masterpieces of the Safavid period, is such that it showcases the beauty of the mosaic tiles and Islamic motifs even at night. Soft and warm lights have been used for the dome and exterior of the mosque to create a spiritual and spiritual effect.
Lighting of the Makki Mosque of Zahedan
The Makki Mosque of Zahedan, one of the largest Sunni mosques in Iran, has a unique lighting design. On the exterior of the mosque, LED projectors and soft colored lights have given it an eye-catching appearance. Inside the mosque, the use of uniform and soft lights has provided a peaceful and pleasant atmosphere for worshipers.
Lighting of Nasir al-Molk Mosque
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, known as the Pink Mosque, with its beautiful stained glass and tilework, benefits from extraordinary lighting. During the day, sunlight shines through the stained glass, creating a unique effect, and at night, the interior lighting of the mosque creates a dreamy and imaginative atmosphere.
Free EDC Design for Mosque and Pilgrimage Lighting
Free EDC design is a valuable service that, by utilizing the expertise of lighting experts, will lead to improved lighting quality and also reduce costs. In this design, the architecture, cultural identity and spiritual values of each place are considered to create a relaxing atmosphere. In addition, using appropriate techniques can show architectural details and decorations in the best possible way. By entrusting your lighting projects to EDC, you can benefit from the world’s top technologies and a specialized and experienced team.
Final Words
In general, it can be said that lighting of pilgrimage sites and mosques is an art that creates a spiritual and relaxing atmosphere by combining light and illumination. In addition to showcasing architectural details and decorations, this art will also strengthen the sense of spirituality and connection to spirituality in visitors.
