5 most beautiful mosques around the world
The Al-Haram Mosque, located in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, is the largest mosque in the world, covering 400,800 square metres
1. The Al-Haram Mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
The Al-Haram Mosque, located in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, is the largest mosque in the world, covering 400,800 square metres. Annually, millions visit for the Hajj and Umrah rituals. Revered in the Quran as the first place of worship, it houses the Kaaba and the sacred black stone. The hills of Safa and Marwa are also situated within the premises of the mosque. Since it was built, Al-Haram or the forbidden mosque is continuously expanding to accommodate more and more pilgrims.
2. Masjid An-Nabawi, Medina, Saudi Arabia
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The mosque situated in Medina, Saudi Arabia, is one of the most significant mosques in Islam. Established by the Prophet Muhammad, it attracts millions of visitors each year. The mosque features the Green Dome, which marks the Prophet's burial site and serves as a spiritual hub for worshippers. It is revered for its architectural beauty and historical importance.
3. Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, popularly known as the Blue Mosque for its stunning Iznik tiles, is a remarkable 17th-century structure built during Ahmed I's reign. With six soaring minarets and five main domes, it represents the last great mosque of the classical era. Visitors must adhere to specific rules, including women wearing headscarves and no flash photography allowed inside.
4. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, adorned with 82 gleaming white domes, exquisite hand-knotted carpets, and Swarovski-covered chandeliers, ranks among the world's most beautiful mosques. This architectural marvel accommodates over 40,000 worshippers and features a stunning pool that reflects the mosque's columns at night. Housing the world's largest handwoven carpet, it boasts 1,096 columns embedded with amethyst and jasper, alongside calligraphic inscriptions promoting patience and peace.
5. Hagia Sophia Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey
The Hagia Sophia Mosque is a must-visit for Muslims, celebrated for its stunning beauty and rich history. A remarkable example of Byzantine architecture, it was originally constructed as a Christian church but was converted into a mosque during Ottoman rule from 1453 to 1935. Its long minarets and Arabic inscriptions reflect its Islamic significance, while the exquisite mosaics recount its Christian heritage.
