In honour of Ramadan and of hajj, we’ve put together a list of some of the most awe-inspiring mosques from all over the world
Like many events in 2020, this year’s Ramadan is likely to be a little different compared to the usual. Yet, while many may be asked to keep inside their homes during Islam’s most spiritual month, it doesn’t take away from the beauty of both the faith and its many religious artefacts.
Ramadan is one of the most deeply revered traditions of the Muslim community—it is in fact, a pillar of the religion. Held on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, it is when Muslims believe God to have sent the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad. For believers, this is a month of deep faith and introspection, one of communal prayer, fasting, and self-sacrifice. It concludes a month later, on Eid al-Fitr, when Muslims celebrate the “Feast of Fast-Breaking”.
In honour of Ramadan, and of hajj (the pilgrimage that Muslims usually undertake to go to Mecca), we’ve compiled a list of some of the world’s most beautiful and historic mosques. Although there may be fewer pilgrims making their way to Mecca this year, we hope this list will inspire people of all religions to see the beauty of Muslim tradition.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (United Arab Emirates)
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is—in one word—grandiose. Its gold-tipped minarets gleam beautifully under the Abu Dhabi sunlight, a bright and shining contrast to the pristine white of its domes and arches. As one of the world’s largest mosques, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is home to 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers and also features the world's largest hand-knotted carpet. Its beautiful courtyards carry reflective pools that lead you to its main prayer room. Designed by multiple architects and artisans, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a beautiful display of how various cultures can come together to create a spiritual utopia for people of all backgrounds.
(Related: Tatler Itinerary: What To Do In Abu Dhabi)