18 Most Beautiful Mosques To Visit In The World

Muslims across the world have engaged local artisans and architects for centuries to produce splendid mosques. The architectural designs of these mosques are influenced by their geographical location and the era of construction, resulting in a plethora of exquisitely crafted styles. The global landscape is adorned with a multitude of mosques that captivate with their exterior and interior allure. With resplendent golden domes and interiors adorned in a myriad of vibrant colors, these sacred havens not only possess external magnificence but also internal charm. This rich blend of aesthetics and historical significance continuously beckons countless visitors from across the globe to explore and appreciate them.

Embark on a journey to discover the most enchanting mosques from various nations across the world, each an embodiment of beauty that will undoubtedly leave you awestruck.

# Hassan II Mosque

Erected in the year 1993, this mosque stands prominently at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, resembling a grand lighthouse. It claims the title of being the largest mosque within its country's borders and ranks as the seventh largest globally. The mosque's charm is unparalleled, with its walls meticulously handcrafted from marble, a retractable roof, and a minaret soaring to 60 meters, adorned with intricate design elements and crowned by a laser light perpetually aligned with the Mecca's direction.

This monumental sanctuary has the capacity to accommodate a congregation of 105,000 individuals, with 25,000 finding space within the mosque's interior hall and an additional 80,000 on the sprawling grounds outside.

# Al-Haram Mosque

Encompassing a vast expanse of 400,800 square meters, Al Haram stands as one of the globe's most ancient and expansive mosques. Nestled within the city of Mecca, this mosque comprises both indoor and outdoor prayer areas, with the capacity to comfortably house up to 2 million worshippers. The mosque's proximity to one of the most sacred sites, 'The Kaaba,' makes it an essential epicenter of devotion. During the sacred Hajj pilgrimage, an annual event in Mecca, it becomes host to the largest congregations witnessed worldwide.

Since its initial construction, the mosque has undergone numerous renovations, including the addition of further minarets, gates, and modern heating and cooling systems. This continual enhancement has rendered it truly unique and unparalleled.

# Al- Nabawi Mosque, Medina, Saudia Arabia

Located within the city of Medina in Saudi Arabia, Al Masjid an-Nabawi stands as the third mosque ever constructed in Islamic history and has grown to become one of the largest mosques on a global scale. This magnificent mosque, built by The Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him), remains open to worshippers at all times. Positioned at the heart of Medina, it is encompassed by a variety of hotels and historic markets. A particularly revered site for Muslims, it holds the esteemed title of being a primary pilgrimage destination, featuring a special zone known as Riad ul-Jannah. This designated area holds profound significance, as it is believed that prayers offered within its confines are unfailingly answered.

One of the most captivating attributes of this mosque is its iconic Green Dome, which significantly enhances the mosque's overall visual appeal. This enchanting edifice, with its two-tiered design, is arranged in a rectangular layout, capped by a smooth cement roof and featuring 27 sliding rooms.

# Al- Aqsa Mosque, Jerusalem

Positioned within the historic confines of the Old City of Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa Mosque stands as a true exemplar of architectural beauty among the world's mosques. The entirety of the mosque's complex encompasses not only the main structure but also features such as the revered Dome of the Rock, four graceful minarets, and a total of seventeen intricate gates. These elements collectively contribute to the mosque's undeniable charm.

At the heart of the mosque lies the grand 'Dome of the Rock,' an impressive sight crafted from vibrant turquoise mosaic tiles and crowned with an immense golden dome. This mosque serves as a sacred venue for daily prayers as well as hosting substantial Friday gatherings that accommodate thousands of faithful worshippers.

The significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque stems from the belief that it was the location of a celestial journey undertaken by Muhammad. According to the tenets of faith, Muhammad was transported from the Al Haram Mosque in Mecca during the Night Journey, subsequently ascending to heaven from this very site.

# The Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Constructed during the period spanning 1609 to 1616, the Blue Mosque stands as a testament to architectural brilliance, adorned with a series of domes and half domes. Regarded as one of the world's most splendid mosques, it holds historical and architectural significance, distinguished by its six slender minarets and an abundance of captivating beauty.

This exquisite Masjid harmoniously amalgamates two centuries, featuring hand-painted blue tiles, meticulously carved embellishments, and tablets adorned with verses from the Quran. Comprising five prominent domes, six towering minarets, and a total of eight secondary domes, the mosque presents a comprehensive architectural marvel. It is an authentic representation of traditional Islamic architectural styles and is often regarded as the culmination of the classical era of mosque design. The mosque's diverse array of colorful domes and intricate archways enhance its overall allure, rendering it an enchanting sight to behold.

# Shah Faisal Mosque, Islamabad

Constructed during the period spanning 1609 to 1616, the Blue Mosque stands as a testament to architectural brilliance, adorned with a series of domes and half domes. Regarded as one of the world's most splendid mosques, it holds historical and architectural significance, distinguished by its six slender minarets and an abundance of captivating beauty.

This exquisite Masjid harmoniously amalgamates two centuries, featuring hand-painted blue tiles, meticulously carved embellishments, and tablets adorned with verses from the Quran. Comprising five prominent domes, six towering minarets, and a total of eight secondary domes, the mosque presents a comprehensive architectural marvel. It is an authentic representation of traditional Islamic architectural styles and is often regarded as the culmination of the classical era of mosque design. The mosque's diverse array of colorful domes and intricate archways enhance its overall allure, rendering it an enchanting sight to behold.

# Suleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul

Situated atop Istanbul's Third Hill in Turkey, the Suleymaniye Mosque stands as the world's second-largest mosque and is counted among its most captivating. The mosque's exterior boasts a remarkable grandeur, achieved through the skillful incorporation of marble, granite, and porphyry materials. In contrast, the interior decorations exude a subtle elegance, characterized by a meticulously measured deployment of Iznik Tiles, white marble, ivory, and pearl accents.

The mosque's design harmoniously marries elements of Islamic and Byzantine architecture, resulting in a breathtaking structure that captures the imagination. Its aesthetic appeal is equally enchanting from the inside, where the fusion of these architectural styles creates a visually pleasing ambiance.

# Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

Elevated 11 meters above sea level and positioned at a height of 9.5 meters above street level in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ranks among the largest mosques globally. This renowned world-class mosque spans an impressive area of 22,412 square meters, with the capacity to accommodate over 40,000 individuals simultaneously. Serving as a significant hub for Islamic worshipers, it holds the esteemed distinction of being the country's grand mosque.

Drawing inspiration from renowned mosques around the world, including the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, and the Alexandrian Mosque, the design of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque showcases elements from these architectural marvels. Its resplendent architecture is a masterpiece adorned with materials such as marble, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals, and ceramics, forming an irresistible magnet for visitors from across the globe.

# Nusrat Djahan Mosque, Copenhagen

Erected in Denmark in 1967, the Nusrat DJahan Mosque stands as a striking testament to architectural beauty and spirituality. What sets this mosque apart is its unique funding source: it was entirely financed by the women of the Ahmadiyya Community. This mosque holds the distinction of being Denmark's inaugural mosque, offering a serene and spiritually enriching environment for paying homage to the divine.

The mosque's architecture is nothing short of captivating, drawing the attention of individuals from various corners of the world. Its allure lies not only in its physical beauty but also in the dedication and unity that brought it into existence.

# Zahir Mosque, Malaysia

Located in the capital city of Kedah, the renowned Zahir Mosque is esteemed as one of Malaysia's oldest mosques. Its construction dates back to 1912, and over the years, it has gained widespread recognition, securing a spot among the top 10 most exquisite mosques worldwide. Its charm emanates from a design that draws inspiration from the Azizi Mosque of the Langkat Sultanate in North Sumatra.

Within its premises, the mosque plays host to the state's annual Quran reading competition, adding a significant spiritual and educational aspect to its significance. As a splendid representation of Malay-Islamic architecture, the Zahir Mosque captivates with its intricate walls and ceilings, luring in numerous travelers from all corners of the world. Amidst Malaysia's abundant beauty and array of tourist attractions, this mosque stands as a prominent gem.

# Umayyad Mosque, Damascus

Located within the historic precincts of Damascus' old city, the Umayyad Mosque emerges as one of the world's grandest mosques. Its magnitude is matched by its significance, as it holds a mausoleum that enshrines the tomb of Saladin, nestled in a small garden adjoining the northern wall of the mosque. This mosque carries profound religious associations, with a belief that it safeguards the head of John the Baptist and is the designated site for Jesus' arrival on Judgment Day.

The mosque's elegance finds expression in various elements, including its expansive central dome poised atop the prayer hall and the sprawling courtyard adorned with marble, glass mosaics, and touches of gold. With its captivating interior and exterior, the Umayyad Mosque offers an enchanting experience for explorers, showcasing its remarkable beauty in every facet.

# The Great Mosque of Cordoba, Spain

Nestled in Spain, the Great Mosque of Cordoba stands as a resplendent testament to architectural beauty. Known colloquially as Mezquita-Catedral, this mosque holds a distinguished status as one of the oldest surviving structures from the late 8th century. Unlike its counterparts that were dismantled following the Christian conquest of Cordoba in 1236, the Great Mosque not only endured but thrived, becoming a premier tourist attraction in Spain.

With its origins dating back to an era of architectural innovation, the Mosque of Cordoba stands as a remarkable exemplar of intricate design. Its walls are adorned with decorative flourishes, and the skilled use of red and white bricks amplifies its visual allure. This mosque holds a distinct atmosphere for prayer, void of paintings, sculptures, or chairs, instead featuring geometric patterns intricately etched onto the pillars, fostering a serene and contemplative ambiance.

The true magnificence of the building is showcased through its arcaded hypostyle hall, boasting a staggering 856 columns crafted from materials such as jasper, onyx, marble, and granite. This architectural masterpiece stands as a tribute to the convergence of history, art, and spiritual devotion.

# Bursa Grand Mosque, Turkey

Crafted by the hands of Ali Neccar between 1396 and 1399, the Ulu Cami stands tall as not only the largest mosque in Bursa but also a pinnacle of early Ottoman architectural ingenuity. This colossal edifice is characterized by a sprawling rectangular layout, adorned with twenty graceful domes and fortified by twelve sturdy columns. Amidst this grandeur, a captivating fountain graces the surroundings, while the mosque's interior, spacious and gently illuminated, extends an invitation to tranquility, providing a sanctuary away from the tumult of daily life.

Elevating the mosque's aesthetic further is the intricate art of Islamic calligraphy, which finds its vivid expression within its walls. This sacred space showcases an array of splendid inscriptions adorning walls, columns, and both small and large plates, serving as a splendid embodiment of this flourishing art form. The Ulu Cami not only stands as a testament to architectural prowess but also as a canvas for the exquisite beauty of Islamic calligraphy, etching its significance within the tapestry of history.

# Qolsharif Mosque, Russia

Originally built during the 16th century, the Qolsarif Mosque stands out as one of the grandest mosques not only in Russia but also throughout Europe. Its historical journey took a tragic turn during the Kazan attack, resulting in its destruction, only to be resiliently reconstructed in 1996. In its present form, this mosque assumes dual roles: a repository of Islamic culture as a museum, and a serene haven for major Muslim celebrations.

The mosque's captivating structure bears a resemblance to a Disney castle, rendering it an alluring sight for a myriad of global travelers. As an authentic architectural masterpiece, the mosque's layout encompasses a publishing house, an office for an Imam, and a well-stocked library. In its entirety, the Qolsarif Mosque stands as a remarkable blend of history, faith, and breathtaking design.

# Crystal Mosque, Malaysia

Located within the Islamic Heritage Park on Wan Man Island off Terengganu, the Crystal Mosque stands as a majestic religious monument, drawing in countless devotees from around the globe. What sets this mosque apart is its resplendent exterior, adorned with a captivating fusion of steel, glass, and crystal materials. This unique architectural blend creates an effect that's both sleek and contemporary, lending the mosque an entrancing visual appeal that resonates on an international scale.

Positioned serenely over the Terengganu River, the mosque boasts the capacity to accommodate more than 1500 worshippers simultaneously. Furthermore, the mosque complex houses the RM250 Million theme park, featuring replicas of various iconic Islamic monuments found across Malaysia and the world, including the Taj Mahal of India and the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. This mosque stands as a testament to both modern architectural ingenuity and the rich cultural heritage it represents.

# The London Central Mosque, London

Conceived by Sir Frederick Gibberd in 1978, the London Central Mosque stands as a renowned spiritual destination and a notable tourist attraction within London. The mosque's architecture is a remarkable testament to its meticulous design, featuring an array of captivating elements. The interiors are adorned with a grand chandelier, an expansive carpet, and intricately designed motifs inspired by the Islamic tradition. The premises also house a small bookshop and a halal café, providing additional amenities for visitors. Dominating the scene is the mosque's most distinctive feature—a resplendent golden dome.

Nestled in proximity to Regent's Park in London, this mosque boasts the capability to accommodate more than 5,000 worshippers at any given time. Additionally, a separate balcony is dedicated to female worshippers, ensuring a designated and inclusive space for their participation. The London Central Mosque stands as a harmonious blend of architectural finesse, spiritual reverence, and a welcoming environment for all who visit.

# Great Mosque of Xi'an

Captivating individuals from around the world with its captivating architecture, the Great Mosque of Xi'an stands as a prominent global landmark and a cherished tourist destination in China. Encompassing a sprawling expanse of 12,000 square meters, the mosque's design is characterized by a series of five courtyards enclosed by walls, wherein the prayer hall occupies the fourth courtyard. Adorned by lush green gardens and adorned with venerable interiors, it ranks among the world's most stunning mosques. Beyond its architectural charm, it offers an ideal sanctuary for those seeking a tranquil spiritual retreat, away from the bustling demands of daily life.

# Puchong Perdana Mosque, Malaysia

Indulge your senses in the captivating sight of an enchanting edifice seemingly adrift on water. Established in 1997, the Puchong Perdana Mosque graces Malaysia with its exquisite presence. This mosque showcases an alluring pink hue and is meticulously crafted from rose-tinted granite. Its architectural layout encompasses three primary zones—the prayer hall, the courtyard, and the function rooms—each serving a distinct purpose.

Earning a place among the world's largest mosques, the Puchong Perdana Mosque possesses the remarkable capacity to host approximately 15,000 worshippers simultaneously. Its serene location, combined with its remarkable aesthetic and functional qualities, renders it a noteworthy marvel in the realm of religious architecture.