The Maqsura
In ancient times, when many of the most interesting mosques were constructed, rulers or governors, often referred to as caliphs, were in danger of assassination. In the earliest era of Islam, this individual was also the imam of a principle mosque. Originally, the maqsura consisted of a raised platform with protective wooden screens built to safeguard the ruler's life. In this early age of Islam, the governor's place (dar al-imara) was often constructed adjacent to the qibla wall providing him immediate access to the mihrab area of the mosque and the maqsura. The maqsura was often very elaborate, providing a suitable environment for the prestige of the ruling governor. In some cases, a separate enclosure was also provided for princes, or local rulers, such as the open iwans of mosques in Central Asia.
Read more: http://www.touregypt.net/featurestories/mosqueoverview.htm#ixzz3rKV7DY4DThe Maqsura
In ancient times, when many of the most interesting mosques were constructed, rulers or governors, often referred to as caliphs, were in danger of assassination. In the earliest era of Islam, this individual was also the imam of a principle mosque. Originally, the maqsura consisted of a raised platform with protective wooden screens built to safeguard the ruler's life. In this early age of Islam, the governor's place (dar al-imara) was often constructed adjacent to the qibla wall providing him immediate access to the mihrab area of the mosque and the maqsura. The maqsura was often very elaborate, providing a suitable environment for the prestige of the ruling governor. In some cases, a separate enclosure was also provided for princes, or local rulers, such as the open iwans of mosques in Central Asia.