Nasima Khatun
Mosques are a place of refuge for a lot of Muslims, especially when the world can be so busy and turbulent. Being surrounded by likeminded worshippers in a place where nothing else matters besides complete dedication to God is a truly humbling experience. Beyond that, mosques have also become some of the world’s most notable hotspots, especially for tourists that are hoping to catch a glimpse of the beauty they possess. So without further ado, let’s count down 10 of the world’s most beautiful mosques.
Add these to your bucket list, guys!
Masjid al-Haram
Known as one of the most important mosques in Islam, al-Haram is located in the heart of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. In the Quran, it’s referred to as the central point for prayer for all Muslims, as seen in Surah Al-Baqarah [2:149]: “So from wherever you go out [for prayer, O Muhammad] turn your face toward al- Masjid al-haram, and indeed, it is the truth from your Lord. And Allah is not unaware of what you do.“
Covering a massive 400,800 square meters, the iconic location can accommodate up to four million people during Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage. Beyond just the religious significance, it’s also a beautiful sight to see.
The Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most prized buildings, adding that extra burst of beauty to an already stunning skyline.
The six slim pillars give it a unique look and the interior boasts beautiful mosaic tiles – one of the reasons many believe it was named The Blue Mosque. The second origin story of its name is based on ancient sailors who sailed by the mosque on the Marmara Sea saw the blue colours of the sea reflected on the building.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
This is probably one of the most famous mosques in the whole world.
Not only is it a location for Muslims to visit, but it’s also a major tourist hotspot in the city of Abu Dhabi. With a total of 82 domes and over 1,000 columns, the mosque’s beauty is also amplified by the reflective pools surrounding it – a sight to see for sure.
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque AKA the Pink Mosque is located in Iran and is known for it’s distinct mosaic windows, as you can see above. The vibrant colours and the beautiful crafted shapes make the windows pop, a stark contrast from the typical glass windows of smaller mosques around us.
The building was constructed between 1876 and 1888, during the Qajar dynasty, which ruled Iran from 1785 to 1925 and today, it still stands as one of the most beautiful landmarks of the country.
Al Aqsa Mosque
Now we get onto Al Aqsa, located in Jerusalem, Palestine. This mosque is hailed as one of the 3 holiest sites in Islam along with the Kaaba in Mecca and Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina so it has a particular level of high importance to Muslims all around the world.
While it should be a point of peace and devotion to God, over the past few decades, it has actually become a central point of conflict between Palestinians and Israeli-nationalists who have tried to claim the compound as theirs despite it holding significance in all Abrahamic religions.
Despite numerous destruction threats by Zionists, the building stands in all of it’s glorious beauty, providing a place for Palestinian Muslims to pray. Free Palestine, as always.
Kul Sharif Mosque
During the time of construction, the Kul Sharif Mosque located in Kazan Kremlin, was known to be one of the largest mosques in Russia, and in Europe (outside of Istanbul, of course!) I don’t know about you, but the external design of this particular mosque, everything from the colour to the aesthetic, gives it such a magical feel, like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairytale.
And I bet it’s even more stunning in real life.
Suleymaniye Mosque
Another beautiful Turkish mosque built during the Ottoman times. This imperial building is located on the Third Hill in Istanbul and was built by Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the imperial architect Mimar Sinan. According to inscriptions found, construction of the magnificent mosque started in 1550 CE and finished in 1558 CE.
The interior of the mosque contains stained glass windows and blue, Iznik tilework on the qiblah wall. On either side of the mihrab (the symbolic focal point) are large calligraphy tiles with text from Surah al-Fatiha.
Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque
Located in Malaysia, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque has a more modern feel to its design. It’s most stand-out feature has to be the blue and silver glass dome, the colours being a common theme for the rest of the building too.
Being the second largest mosque in the country, it can accommodate up to 24,000 worshippers at a time and as you can see, it really puts other surrounding buildings to shame with it’s sheer beauty.
Poi Kalan Mosque
Now, Uzbekistan is known for some beautiful and traditional buildings and Kalan mosque has to be up there with the best. The Poi Kalan complex is made up of 3 parts, with the masjid being one of them. The other two parts are the Kalan Minaret, to which the overall name refers to, and the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah.
As beautiful as the entire complex is, the bold statement is really amplified by the mosaic archway – definitely a must-see during your lifetime.
Wazir Khan Mosque
This mosque in Lahore, Pakistan has a a rich history behind it. According to Google’s Art and Culture section, it was “built by the Governor (or Wazir) of the Punjab, Hakim Shaikh Ilm-ud-din Ansari. The construction of the mosque commenced in 1634. A short walk away from the Lahore Fort, the mosque acquired political importance as it became the official destination for the Emperor’s Friday congregational prayers.”
The bright colours of the building, internal and external, fit perfectly with the vibrance of Lahore and over time, this mosque has become a local hotspot for tourists visiting Pakistan.
Badshahi Mosque
The last mosque on this list is also another pick in Lahore. This traditional build spans across 321, 488 square feet and can accommodate up to 100,000 people at once, making it one of the largest mosques in the world. The Badshahi Mosque’s full name is “Masjid Abul Zafar Muhy-ud-Din Mohammad Alamgir Badshah Ghazi” and is written in inlaid marble above the entrance.
For obvious reasons, it’s also one of Lahore’s stand-out landmarks with 3 domes and multiple great archways. When illuminated in the evening, the Badshahi Mosque offers a stunning view, one that cannot be competed with.
Those are just a 10 of our picks for the most beautiful mosques in the world, but there are many more. Head over to our website to have a look for yourselves!