Minaret

(Turkish: minare,[1] from Arabic manāra (lighthouse) منارة, usually مئذنة) is a distinctive architectural feature of Islamic mosques, generally a tall spire with an onion-shaped or conical crown, usually either free standing or taller than any associated support structure. The basic form of a minaret includes a base, shaft, and gallery. Styles vary regionally and by period. Minarets provide a visual focal point and are used for the call to prayer (adhan).

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minaret

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