Great Mosque

The Great Mosque of Xian is the largest and best preserved of the early mosques of China. It is located in Huajue Lane beside the Drum Tower, and covering an area of 12,000 square meters. It was originally set up in 742AD during the Tang Dynasty (618C907) with interesting architecture and stone carvings. The mosque is built in a Chinese traditional style with the grounds taken up by platforms, pavilions and halls. After restorations in the Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, the present complex proudly ranks among the largest mosques in China. The Great Mosque now serves as an important spot for religious activities of over 60,000 Muslims in Xi'an.

Architectureof the Great Mosque
Built primarily in the Ming Dynasty when Chinese architectural elements were synthesized into mosque architecture, the mosque resembles a fifteenth century Buddhist temple with its single axis lined with courtyards and pavilions. The mosque occupies a narrow lot about 48 meters by 248 meters. Four successive courtyards, each with a signature pavilion, screen, or freestanding gateway, lead to the prayer hall located at the western end of the axis. More Information...