Ottoman Mosques and Congregational Mosques in Cyrenaica – The Old Mosque in Derna as a Case Study An Archaeological Study

Abstract

This study aimed to focus on the importance of mosque construction during the period of the Old Mosque's construction, as well as the roles of these mosques in daily life. It also highlighted similarities and differences with mosques in nearby areas and showcased the architectural influences that adorned the mosque. The study employs a historical narrative approach to analyze and examine the Old Mosque in order to arrive at the most accurate results. The study concluded that cultural heritage represents the memory of peoples and the essence of their cultural identity, making its preservation a shared responsibility. This necessitates the use of virtual documentation of the Old Mosque in Derna through the creation of a scale model that reflects its architectural features and contributes to preserving its image for scientific and educational purposes. The study also demonstrated that scale models are important tools for preserving archaeological buildings and enhance awareness of the importance of cultural heritage. The study recommends prioritizing the documentation of heritage sites using virtual documentation and scale models, which contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage