Islamic architecture is characterized by geometric and floral decorative motifs as depictions of figures are forbidden. Buildings tend to be horizontal with domes and high towers called minarets. The central building is the mosque, which serves as a social center organized around an open courtyard. It contains areas for prayer, a niche indicating the direction of Mecca, and a minaret for calling people to prayer. Cordoba's mosque in Spain is an important example, constructed in the caliphal style with identical horseshoe arches, semicircular arches, and lavish decorative elements like the mihrab.