Palm Tree Mosque

Palm Tree Mosque is a place of worship in central Cape Town featuring traditional Islamic architectural elements and sash windows along its facade. The building has a compact layout designed to serve the religious needs of its congregation.

The building originated in the late 1700s when freed people began establishing their own religious spaces in the city. It grew to become a significant center for the developing Muslim community of Cape Town.

The mosque takes its name from a palm tree that once stood in front of the building and served as a landmark for the local community. Visitors today can observe the simple, functional interior design that reflects its regular use as a place of worship.

The mosque sits on Long Street in the heart of the city and welcomes visitors during daytime hours. Keep in mind it is an active place of worship, so visitors should dress and behave respectfully.

The low windows and short entrance door are an unexpected architectural quirk caused by how the street changed over two centuries. The street level around the building has been raised gradually over time, making the mosque appear sunken into the ground.

Location: City of Cape Town

Inception: 1820

Official opening: 1807

Address: 185 Long Street

GPS coordinates: -33.92477,18.41679

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46