10 Most Beautiful & Largest Mosques Around The World

Apr 26
16:10

2024

Mr Justin Mark

Mr Justin Mark

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Discover the architectural splendor and spiritual significance of the world's most beautiful and largest mosques. These mosques are not only places of worship but also monuments of exquisite artistry and cultural heritage, reflecting the rich traditions of Islamic architecture.

The Architectural Marvels of Islamic Worship

Mosques serve as the heart of the Muslim community,10 Most Beautiful & Largest Mosques Around The World Articles providing a space for communal prayers and social gatherings. They are also a testament to the artistic and architectural prowess that Islamic culture has contributed to the world. This article explores ten of the most awe-inspiring mosques around the globe, each telling its own unique story through its magnificent design.

1. The Great Mosque of Mecca (Masjid al-Haram)

Location: Mecca, Saudi ArabiaYear Established: Originally built in the 7th century, expanded over the yearsNotable Features: The Kaaba, Black StoneCapacity: Over 2 million worshippers

The Great Mosque of Mecca, also known as Masjid al-Haram, is the largest mosque in the world and the holiest site in Islam. It surrounds the Kaaba, towards which all Muslims pray. The mosque covers an area of 356,800 square meters and accommodates millions of pilgrims during Hajj.

2. Al-Masjid an-Nabawi

Location: Medina, Saudi ArabiaYear Established: 622 ADNotable Features: Green Dome, RawdahCapacity: Approximately 1 million worshippers

Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, built by the Prophet Muhammad, is the second holiest site in Islam. It features the Green Dome under which the Prophet is buried. The mosque is a prime example of Islamic architecture with modern expansions to accommodate a growing number of visitors.

3. Al-Aqsa Mosque

Location: Jerusalem, PalestineYear Established: 705 ADNotable Features: Dome of the Rock, ancient Islamic artCapacity: Up to 400,000 worshippers

Al-Aqsa Mosque, located in the Old City of Jerusalem, is considered the third holiest site in Islam. It encompasses the entire Haram esh-Sharif, including the Dome of the Rock, a significant Islamic landmark.

4. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

Location: Bandar Seri Begawan, BruneiYear Established: 1958Notable Features: Marble minarets, golden domes, lagoonCapacity: 3,000 worshippers

This mosque is a stunning example of contemporary Islamic architecture combined with Mughal and Italian styles. It is surrounded by a lagoon that mirrors its majestic structure, making it a popular attraction in Brunei.

5. Zahir Mosque

Location: Alor Setar, MalaysiaYear Established: 1912Notable Features: Black domes, Moorish architectureCapacity: 5,000 worshippers

Zahir Mosque is one of Malaysia's oldest mosques and is famous for its five large domes symbolizing the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a focal point for the Muslim community in Alor Setar.

6. Faisal Mosque

Location: Islamabad, PakistanYear Established: 1986Notable Features: Contemporary design, Bedouin tent-style structureCapacity: 74,000 worshippers

Designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque in Pakistan. Its unique design eschews the traditional dome and features a sloping roof that resembles a Bedouin tent.

7. Taj-ul-Masajid

Location: Bhopal, IndiaYear Established: 1985 (completed)Notable Features: Pink facade, traditional Mughal architectureCapacity: 175,000 worshippers

Taj-ul-Masajid translates to 'Crown of Mosques' and is one of the largest mosques in Asia. It serves as a religious school during the day and is renowned for its majestic architecture.

8. Badshahi Mosque

Location: Lahore, PakistanYear Established: 1673Notable Features: Red sandstone walls, large courtyardCapacity: 55,000 worshippers

Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, Badshahi Mosque is the second largest mosque in Pakistan. It is a significant example of Mughal architecture with its grandiose structure and detailed marble inlay.

9. Sultan Mosque

Location: SingaporeYear Established: 1826Notable Features: Golden domes, massive prayer hallCapacity: 5,000 worshippers

Sultan Mosque is a prominent landmark in Singapore with a history that dates back to the early 19th century. It was designated a national monument on March 14, 1975, and continues to serve a large congregation of Muslims.

10. Hassan II Mosque

Location: Casablanca, MoroccoYear Established: 1993Notable Features: Tallest minaret, location on the Atlantic OceanCapacity: 105,000 worshippers

Standing partly over the Atlantic Ocean, the Hassan II Mosque features the tallest minaret in the world at 210 meters. It is a symbol of Morocco's religious and cultural heritage.

These mosques not only serve as places of worship but also as centers of learning and community gathering, reflecting the diverse and rich traditions of Islamic culture across the globe.