Παραδοσιακά κτίρια διαμερισμάτων με μπαλκόνια, Βαλέτα, Μάλτα. A mashrabiya or mashrabiyya (Arabic:?????? ) is an architectural element which is characteristic of traditional architecture in the Islamic world and beyond. [1][2] It is a type of projecting oriel window enclosed with carved wood latticework located on the upper floors of a building, sometimes enhanced with stained glass. It was traditionally used to catch wind and for passive cooling. Jars and basins of water could be placed in it to cause evaporative cooling. [3]:? Ch. 6 It is most commonly used on the street side of the building however, it may also be used internally on the sahn (courtyard) side. [4] The term mashrabiya is sometimes used of similar lattices elsewhere, for instance in a takhtabush. 6 It is similar to Indian jali? [5]It has been used since the Middle Ages, reached a peak during the Ottoman period, but fell into decline in the late 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. However, interest in sustainable architecture has contributed to a revival of the mashrabiya and other elements of vernacular architecture.