The mosque architecture of the Independent Sultanate period (from the 14th to the 16th centuries) represents the most important element of the Islamic architecture of Bengal. In this book Perween Hasan demonstrates that the distinctive style of the region drew its inspiration from the indigenous vernacular architecture of Bengal, which was also a source for the Buddhist/Hindu temple architecture of the region. She illustrates with photographs and floor plans how the popularity of the style is rooted in the geography, ecology and culture of the area. -- Dust Jacket.