As we celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan, Agoda , one of the world’s fastest growing online travel agents (OTA), highlights destinations around the world where travelers will find some of the most awe-inspiring mosques ever built.
1. The Blue Mosque – Istanbul, Turkey
One of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions and built between 1609 and 1616, the Blue Mosque was an architectural vision of Sultan Ahmet I of the Ottoman Empire when he was only 13 years old. The majestic building features six tall minarets, unlike more traditional mosques with between one to four minarets, and is best visited in a guided private or small group tour, to learn the rich history of the mosque.
2. Kul Sharif Mosque – Kazan, Russia
Located in Kazan, a city in southwest Russia, the stunning Kul Sharif Mosque was rebuilt in 2005 with a distinctly modern character, after being destroyed in 1552. With three sections to the building, the mosque, a memorial stone and an administrative wing, this is one of the largest mosques in Europe.
3. The Hassan II Mosque – Casablanca, Morocco
Hassan II Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Africa and boasts the world’s tallest minaret at 210 meters. Adorned with Islamic geometric tilework, the décor throughout is magical to observe. Not to be missed, the mosque is also one of a few in Morocco that non-Muslims are allowed to enter.
4. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Abu Dhabi, UAE
A truly breathtaking architectural feat, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a capacity for 40,000 worshippers at one time. Featuring spectacular snow-white marble walls, 24-karat gold crystal chandeliers and the largest hand-woven carpet measuring 5,630 m², the mosque welcomes more than five million visitors a year.
5. Masjid al-Haram – Mecca, Saudi Arabia
The site of pilgrimage for Hajj and Umrah, Masjid al-Haram is the holiest mosque in Islam. The mosque can accommodate up to four million people and is considered by Muslims as the most sacred place on earth. Visit Agoda.com/umrah for over 200 accommodation choices and preferential rates for worshipping travelers visiting Mecca.
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