China: Great Mosque of Xi’an
The Great Mosque of Xi’an was established in 742 CE during the Tang Dynasty, when Xi’an was the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Arab merchants settled in the city, creating a community that has maintained its traditions through thirteen centuries. The mosque is know for its unique Sino-Islamic architecture – while it functions as a mosque, its layout and style closely resemble a traditional Chinese temple. Unlike many mosques, it is arranged along a central axis with five successive courtyards, wooden pavilions, and tiled roofs. However, it is oriented east-to-west to face Mecca, rather than the traditional north-to-south orientation of most Chinese temples. In the third courtyard, the Xingxin Tower serves as the minaret from which the call to prayer is issued, though it is designed as a traditional Chinese pagoda. Throughout the complex, there is a blend of Chinese and Arabic calligraphy, including Quranic verses written in the Sini style (using Chinese-style brushstrokes for Arabic script). The mosque is absolutely unique and amazing and is part of UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to the Silk Road.
