It was overcast and cool again. After a delicious breakfast of waffles, we drove out to the Irvine Spectrum Center. Built over a 10-year period, the large outdoor shopping center was started in 1995.
Its incredible architecture is based on the Alhambra in Granada, Spain. As a splendid example of pure Islamic architecture (relatively uninfluenced by Byzantine styles), Moorish poets described the 16th century palace as "a pearl set in emeralds." Column arcades, fountains with running water and reflecting pools filled this "paradise on earth." The Spectrum did a remarkable job in capturing this feel without sacrificing its function of a shopping mall.
The facades of all the stores fit into the theme.
Watch where you step! This fountain intermittently shot up columns of water.
A small train carried passengers back and forth along the stores.
The Ferris wheel (called Giant Wheel) was made in Italy.
There were many small vendor carts.
The carousel (in the background) was built in San Francisco.
These arches were huge!...
... as my size shows here.
Typically, Islamic art has focused on geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy rather than on figures. This was because many Muslims feared that the depiction of the human form was idolatry and thereby a sin against God. Intentional mistakes would also be made as a show of humility by the artists who believe only God could produce perfection.
Each courtyard was more stunning than the last.
A minaret (meaning lighthouse) such as this one often accompanied a medrassa (school) of a mosque. They provided a visual focal point and were used for the call to prayer.
Indeed it is.
A highly ornate Cheesecake Factory
Security on the go
For a while, this 21-screen movie theater was the largest one in the western US.
At this point, we turned around and retraced our steps back.
Decorated apples at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
We grabbed a quick lunch before heading home.
Self-serve sodas
An amazing grilled macaroni-and-cheese sandwich!
We spent the rest of the afternoon and evening visiting various family friends.
Incredible homemade scotcheroos... a stellar combination of chocolate, peanut butter, Rice Krispies and butterscotch chips!
