:For the mountain formation, see Minarets (California). Minarets (from Arabic manāra (lighthouse) منارة, usually مئذنة) are distinctive architectural features of Islamic mosques. Minarets are generally tall spires with onion-shaped or conical crowns, usually either free standing or taller than any associated support structure. Functions As well as providing a visual cue to a Muslim community, the main function of the minaret is to… (More on Minaret)