There are two distinct features of Ottoman mosques, which were generally designed by the imperial architects pertaining to a particular architectural philosophy of the single space, single dome, where everybody prays equally. The dome symbolises the eternal universe, and the mihrab the presence of the Prophet as leader of the prayers. In order that these two concepts are more distinctive, to underline and to make use of Islamic aesthetics, verses from the Qur’an were written on the dome and on its drum, and the mihrab was richly decorated. The walls were embellished with tiles, or painted with geometric designs symbolising the eternity of God and / or with floral designs resembling the Gardens of Paradise.