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History & Heritage

10.12.2020

4 unusual mosques whose architecture will surprise you!

The opening of a contemporary mosque that shakes up the codes of the genre in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, pushed us to look at these examples of mosques that we do not come across anywhere else. And the list is worth the detour!

The Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali

It dates back to 1907 and is simply the largest building in the world made of raw clay. Considered as the major achievement of the Sudano-Sahelian architectural style, but which nevertheless reflects Islamic influences, it has been registered since 1988 on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

 

 

The Great Mosque of Xi’An, China

It is the only Chinese mosque to be open to the public. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, it was built in the purest style of Chinese architecture, design, and traditions.

 

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Not a bad place to wait for the rain 2 stop ☂

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The Grand Mosque of the Dubai International Financial Centre, United Arab Emirates

This mosque which was designed by the RMJM architectural firm has just opened its doors. Its design is inspired by Islamic architecture but mixes traditional elements, such as the moucharabiehs (a forced natural ventilation system frequently used in traditional architecture in Arab countries), with a contemporary style. Today, there are more and more of these mosques with modern design and architecture, which manage to fit very harmoniously into cities populated by glass towers.

 

 

The Grand Mosque of the Dubai International Financial Centre, United Arab Emirates

This mosque which was designed by the RMJM architectural firm has just opened its doors. Its design is inspired by Islamic architecture but mixes traditional elements, such as the moucharabiehs (a forced natural ventilation system frequently used in traditional architecture in Arab countries), with a contemporary style. Today, there are more and more of these mosques with modern design and architecture, which manage to fit very harmoniously into cities populated by glass towers.

 

 

See also

5 things to know about the Hagia Sophia Mosque

Published on 12 October 2020