Menara Kudus Mosque, Mosque in Kudus, Indonesia
Menara Kudus Mosque is a place of worship in Kudus, Java, that connects a central prayer area with surrounding courtyards. Red brick walls enclose the entire complex and frame several gateways in Javanese style.
An Islamic scholar founded this house of worship in the mid-16th century and placed a stone from Jerusalem in the prayer niche. The building was later restored several times without changing the original layout.
The name comes from Sunan Kudus, a 16th-century preacher whose tomb sits beside the prayer hall. Visitors remove their shoes and enter the courtyard, where worshippers prepare for prayer or sit quietly along the walls.
The site welcomes visitors every day from early morning until late evening, with modest clothing expected. Those wishing to visit the tomb can use a separate entrance on the eastern side of the complex.
The minaret tower shows an unusual shape that resembles Hindu temples more than typical Islamic towers. This design reflects a time when Javanese craftsmen built religious structures according to local traditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
