Minbar, Umayyad Mosque, Damascus.

The minbar in a mosque is the raised platform in the front area of a mosque, from which sermons or speeches are given. The minbar is located to the right of the mihrab, which marks the direction of the qibla for prayer. The minbar is usually made of carved wood, stone, or brick. It includes a short staircase leading to the top platform, which is sometimes covered by a small dome. At the bottom of the staircase there may be a gate or doorway. The speaker walks up the steps and either sits or stands on the minbar while addressing the congregation. Great Mosque of Damascus (Umayyad Mosque), Damascus, Syria.