Shah Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque in Pakistan and the fifth largest in the world. The mosque is referred to as a significant feature of Islamic architecture. is named after King Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia who funded the construction of this mosque. Today this mosque has a very special place in the Islamic World.
This mosque is a major tourist attraction in Islamabad; Islamabad is one of the beautiful capitals in the world. You can see this beautiful mosque from miles away. The late president, General Zia-ul-Haq, the mausoleum is adjacent to the mosque. It is so beautiful outside and inside, no doubt it is a wonderful mosque. People come to visit this grand piece of art.
Location of Mosque
Faisal mosque is situated on the foothills of Margalla hills, Faisal Avenue, F-8 Islamabad Pakistan.
History of Faisal Mosque
Shah Faisal Bin Abdul Aziz visited Pakistan in 1966. During his visit, he led the initiative to build a national mosque in Islamabad. The architect was “Vedat Dalokay” of Turkey, whose design this unique mosque. An international competition was held in 1969, architects from 17 countries submitted 43 proposals of construction.
The selected design was that of Vedat Dholkay. The Construction of the Faisal mosque was started in 1976 and completed in 1986. This mosque is also used to house the International Islamic University but recently university relocated to a new campus. The mosque still has a lecture hall, library, museum, and cafe.
Book 12 Days adventure Tour of Pakistan with 25 destination
The architecture of Mosque
The Faisal mosque’s architecture is modern and unique that inspires everyone. Instead of domes and arches, the mosque is consisting of eight sides of the concrete shell, looks like Bourdain’s tent and the cubic Kaaba in Mecca, with its large triangular prayer hall and four (90m) minarets. It is not close to boundary walls like other mosques.
The inside of the mosque is decorated with mosaics and calligraphy by the famous Pakistani artist “Sadequain”. The Turkish Chandelier in the middle also enhances the beauty of the mosque. The hall can hold 10,000 worshippers and 40,000 in the courtyard. The mosque structure covers an area of 54,000 square feet. The mosque has a total capacity of nearly 300,000 worshippers including Hall, courtyard, and grounds. You may be interested to read about Pakistan Monument, another exciting place to visit in Islamabad.
Book 10 Days Heritage Tour of Pakistan from Lahore to Peshawar
