Mosques are not only places of worship for Muslims, but also architectural wonders that hold significant historical and cultural value. Across the globe, there are several ancient mosques that have stood the test of time, with intricate designs and breathtaking structures that are sure to leave you in awe. Here are 10 must-see ancient mosques across the globe:
Al-Masjid al-Haram, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Located in the heart of Mecca, the Al-Masjid al-Haram mosque is the holiest site in Islam, and is the largest mosque in the world. The mosque surrounds the Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam. The mosque has a long history, with some parts of the structure dating back to the 7th century.
Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Medina, Saudi Arabia
Also known as the Prophet's Mosque, Al-Masjid an-Nabawi is the second holiest site in Islam, after the Al-Masjid al-Haram. The mosque is the final resting place of Prophet Muhammad, and has a rich history dating back to the 7th century.
Great Mosque of Djenné, Mali
Located in the city of Djenné, the Great Mosque of Djenné is one of the most unique and iconic structures in Africa. The mosque was built in the 13th century and is made entirely of mud bricks. The mosque has become a symbol of West African architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey
Originally built as a Christian church in the 6th century, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque in the 15th century, and later into a museum in the 20th century. The mosque has a unique blend of Christian and Islamic architecture, with its massive dome being one of the largest in the world.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a capacity of up to 41,000 worshippers. The mosque was completed in 2007 and is known for its breathtaking white marble architecture and intricate designs.
Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey
Built in the early 17th century, the Blue Mosque is an iconic landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. The mosque is named for the blue tiles that adorn its interior walls, and is known for its six minarets and intricate domes.
Masjid Quba, Medina, Saudi Arabia
Masjid Quba is the oldest mosque in the world, with a history dating back to the time of Prophet Muhammad. The mosque was built in 622 AD and is located on the outskirts of Medina. The mosque has been rebuilt several times throughout history, but its original foundation and design remain intact.
Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, Iran
The Jameh Mosque of Isfahan is one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Iran. The mosque has a rich history, with parts of the structure dating back to the 8th century. The mosque is known for its intricate tilework and unique blend of Islamic and Persian architecture.
Al-Azhar Mosque, Cairo, Egypt
Founded in 970 AD, the Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Egypt, and is also one of the oldest universities in the world. The mosque is known for its beautiful minarets and intricate decorations, and has been a center of Islamic scholarship and learning for over a thousand years.
Faisal Mosque, Pakistan
Faisal Mosque is located in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. The mosque was completed in 1986 and is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a capacity of accommodating over 100,000 worshippers at a time. The mosque's unique design is inspired by Bedouin tents and features a contemporary design with clean lines and geometric shapes. The mosque is a popular tourist attraction and is considered an icon of modern Islamic architecture.
These ancient mosques are not only important religious sites but also architectural marvels that have stood the test of time. They offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Islam and serve as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of Islamic architecture. A visit to these mosques is a must for anyone interested in Islamic art, history, and culture.
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