Mosques are not only places of worship but also symbols of the greatness of Islamic civilization, reflecting extraordinary history, culture, and architecture. Around the world, there are magnificent mosques with astonishing sizes.
Based on data from Beyond My Door, here are the 10 largest mosques in the world, including one from Southeast Asia.
10 Largest Mosques in the World
According to Beyond My Door, here is a list of the 10 largest mosques in the world based on their area:
- Masjid al-Haram, Saudi Arabia – 356,000 square meters, capacity of 4,000,000 people
- Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, Saudi Arabia – 384,000 square meters, capacity of 1,500,000 people
- Grand Jamia Mosque, Karachi, Pakistan – 200,000 square meters, capacity of 950,000 people
- Imam Reza Shrine, Iran – 1,000,000 square meters, capacity of 700,000 people
- Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound, Jerusalem – 150,000 square meters, capacity of 400,000 people
- Faisal Mosque, Pakistan – 130,000 square meters, capacity of 300,000 people
- Istiqlal Mosque, Indonesia – 100,000 square meters, capacity of 200,000 people
- Taj-ul-Masajid, India – 23,000 square meters, capacity of 175,000 people
- Djamaa el Djazaïr, Algeria – 400,000 square meters, capacity of 120,000 people
- Hassan II Mosque, Morocco – 105,000 square meters, capacity of 100,000 people
Also read: Top 10 Unique Mosques in Southeast Asia
Istiqlal Mosque: A Symbol of Independence and Islamic Grandeur in Southeast Asia
From this list, Southeast Asia is represented by Istiqlal Mosque in Indonesia, the largest mosque in the region. The presence of Istiqlal Mosque is a source of pride for Southeast Asia and demonstrates the region’s significant role in global Islamic civilization.
History and Meaning
According to Dunia Masjid Islamic Center Indonesia, the Istiqlal Mosque symbolizes the Indonesian people's gratitude for their independence from colonial rule. The name "Istiqlal" itself comes from Arabic, meaning "independence."
The idea of constructing the mosque emerged in 1950, just four years after Indonesia gained independence. In 1953, the construction plan was presented to President Soekarno, who fully supported the project.
After debates over its location, it was finally decided that the mosque would be built on the site of Wilhelmina Park, near the Merdeka Palace.
Construction began on August 24, 1961, marked by the laying of the first foundation stone by President Soekarno, and was completed on February 22, 1978, inaugurated by President Soeharto.
Also read: Pope Francis Calls for Peace at Interreligious Meeting in the Istiqlal Mosque
Symbol of Tolerance: Istiqlal and Jakarta Cathedral
Istiqlal Mosque also has a unique feature in its location—it is situated directly acrosis also unique This geographic proximity is a symbol of religious tolerance and harmony in Indonesia.
The symbols stand side by side in the heart of the capital, reflecting the spirit of diversity embraced by the Indonesian people.
Architecture and Unique Features
Istiqlal Mosque has a modern architectural design with distinctive Islamic elements. The winner of the mosque's design competition was Friedrich Silaban, who envisioned the mosque with a monumental concept. Some unique features of the mosque include:
- A main dome with a diameter of 45 meters, symbolizes Indonesia’s Proclamation of Independence in 1945.
- A minaret standing 96.66 meters tall, representing the year 1966 as the period of its construction refinement.
- A reinforced concrete structure, making it one of the most resilient mosques in the world.
- A vast interior that can accommodate up to 200,000 worshippers, making it the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.
Also read: Top 7 Largest Mosques in Southeast Asia
Role in Religious Tourism and Diplomacy
Besides being a center of worship, Istiqlal Mosque is also a destination addition to religious tourism and a symbol of international macy.
The mosque has been visited by world leaders such as U.S. President BarWorld have visited the mosque
The mosque also serves as a venue for major Islamic celebrations in Indonesia, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, and as a center for Islamic studies that attracts many visitors from different countries.
Southeast Asia on the Global Stage
The inclusion of Istiqlal Mosque in this list highlights the importance of Southeast Asia in Islamic civilization.
In addition, Southeast Asia's importanceegion's major mosques also serve as religious tourism attractions that draw visitors from around.
Contribution of Southeast Asia to Islamic Heritage
Southeast Asia has made its mark among the world's grandest mosques with Istiqlal Mosque as its representative. This demonstrates that the region possesses a rich Islamic history and culture.
The major mosques of Southeast Asia are not just places of worship but also enduring symbols of Islamic greatness that continue to captivate the world.
