Mosques
Mosques are Muslim places of worship and prayer. The word "mosque" comes from the Arabic
masjid, which is related to the word for "prostration." Muslims are expected to pray five times a day, preferrably in a mosque: morning, midday, afternoon, sunset, and evening. A muezzin calls the worshippers to prayer from a minaret (Arabic manara, a tower). Included in our index are some Islamic places of worship that are not technically mosques, such as the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem (a Muslim shrine) and the Mezquita de Cordoba (now a cathedral).
Tips for visiting mosques: Some mosques do not admit non-Muslims into the buildings, but most of those listed below do allow tourists to enjoy their sacred spaces and beautiful interiors. Visiting is only permitted outside of prayer times. Modest dress is required for both men and women and women must cover their heads. Wraps are provided when deemed necessary by mosque officials. If it often necessary for visitors to remove their shoes at the entrance. Some mosques can be cold in the winter, so consider warm socks! Even outside the designated prayer times, one will usually find a few Muslims performing prayers in the mosque. Be quiet and respectful, and try not to walk in front of them (some Muslims feel that would imply they are bowing down before a person instead of God).
Below is an illustrated index of the 45 Mosques profiled on Sacred Destinations so far. For photo credits, please see corresponding articles.
Featured Mosques
Jerusalem, IsraelThis large mosque on the Temple Mount was originally built in 710 AD. It includes 11th-century mosaics, a 12th-century mihrab, and Crusader arches.
Casablanca, MoroccoCompleted in 1993, this is the second largest mosque in the world and the tallest structure in Morocco. Spectacularly situated on the Atlantic Ocean, it is filled with exquisite carvings.
Mecca, Saudi ArabiaThe holiest mosque in the world, the Haram Mosque has been much expanded from its original 7th-century form. Today it can accommodate up to 820,000 worshippers in air-conditioned comfort.
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All Mosques (by Country) |
