Great Mosque of Kilwa, Medieval mosque in Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania
The Great Mosque of Kilwa is a medieval building on the coast with walls built from coral stone and high vaulted ceilings supported by stone columns. The interior is divided into multiple sections separated by pillars that hold up the roof.
The building was constructed at the end of the 9th century and expanded in the 14th century when a sultan added a southern section with a dome. This expansion made it an important religious center in the trading city.
The mosque shows a blend of Persian, African, and Indian building styles visible in its carved patterns and how the rooms are organized. You can see this mixture clearly in the details of the stonework throughout the structure.
The building is accessible through guided tours that show you how it was built and explain its role in the city's trade. It is important to wear solid footwear and watch for uneven surfaces as you walk through.
The building has an unusual layout with sixteen sections held up by nine pillars, which sets it apart from other mosques of its time. This special arrangement made it possible to build without a central courtyard.
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