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).
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. This index is by no means exhaustive, but includes major mosques of interest to pilgrims and tourists. Mosques are listed alphabetically by city. Note: Included in this list are some Islamic places of worship that are not technically mosques, such as the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem (a shrine) and the Mezquita de Cordoba (now a cathedral).
Currently Featured Mosques
Bukhara, Uzbekistan |
Cordoba, Spain |
Medina, Saudi Arabia |
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Istanbul, Turkey |
Beijing, China |
Cairo, Egypt |
Books on Mosques
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More books on mosques and Islamic art...
Tips for Visiting Mosques
Outside of prayer times, non-Muslim visitors are welcome to many mosques, but access is somewhat limited.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).
