ARCHITECTURE OF TRANQUILLITY
Mosques are one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in the world. There are several mosques across the globe that are unique in terms of their architecture, space, establishment, significance and location. What can be a better time than the Muslim month of Ramadan to appreciate the beauty and historical significance of these richly designed mosques.
PALAIYA JUMMA PALLI, INDIA
The Palaiya Jumma Palli Mosque is believed to be the fourth oldest mosque in the world. It is one of the greatest examples of the confluence of Dravidian and Islamic architecture in India. Though the appearance of the mosque is similar to that of a Hindu temple, it is devoid of any idol carvings on its walls and pillars.
HASSAN II MOSQUÉE, MOROCCO
The Grande Mosquée Hassan II located in Casablanca, Morocco, stands on a promontory looking out to the Atlantic Ocean, the sea bed being visible through the glass floor of the building’s hall. Its minaret is the world’s tallest standing 210 metres high. A maximum of 105,000 worshippers can gather in the mosque at a time for prayers.
GREAT MOSQUE OF XI’AN, CHINA
The Great Mosque of Xi’an is the oldest one in China. It is a combination of traditional Chinese architecture and Islamic art. It was constructed to honour the founders of Islam in China.
GREAT MOSQUE OF KAIROUAN, TUNISIA
The Great Mosque is situated in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Kairouan in Tunisia. It is one of the most impressive and largest Islamic monuments in North Africa. Historically, its significance lies in being the first mosque in the first town of Islam in the West.
FAISAL MOSQUE, PAKISTAN
The Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan, is the biggest mosque in South-East and Southern Asia. It is the fourth largest mosque in the world. It is not like the other mosques since it does not have traditional domes and arches. The structure of the mosque is like a Bedouin desert tent with four tall minarets.
UMAYYAD MOSQUE, SYRIA
Located in the old city of Damascus the Umayyad is the first monumental work of architecture in Islamic history. Muslims believe that this Mosque is the place where Prophet Isa (PBUH) will return when the world will be close to an end.
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