1. Steeple or dome: Most religious buildings have a tall tower, spire, or dome that serves as a beacon for people to find their way.
2. Decorative facade: Ornamental facades with intricate details, sculptures, carvings, and reliefs that reflect the religious beliefs and values.
3. Religious symbols: Religious buildings usually have symbols or iconography that represents the religion's unique features and beliefs, such as crosses, stars of David, Om symbols, crescent moons, and others.
4. Bell towers: In some religious buildings, particularly churches, bell towers with large bells are used to signal different times of day, holidays, or important events.
5. Arches and vaults: Arched openings, ribbed vaults, and domes are often used to span wide spaces and create a sense of grandeur and sacredness.
6. Stained glass windows: Colored and complex geometric patterns in stained glass are frequently used as a decorative element in religious buildings.
7. Courtyards: Courtyards or gardens, with fountains or other water features, are frequently used in religious buildings, particularly in Islamic and Japanese temples, to create a peaceful and calm ambiance.
8. Entrance portals: Many religious buildings have doors or portals with intricate, impressive designs that remind people of the importance of entering a holy place with humility and respect.
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