Al-Markaz Al-Islami Mosque, Islamic religious center in Makassar City, Indonesia.
Al-Markaz Al-Islami is a three-story mosque in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province in Indonesia, constructed largely from granite. A tall minaret rises above the compound, which also includes supporting buildings arranged around the main prayer hall.
Construction of the mosque began in 1994 and was completed in 1996, with architect Ahmad Noe'man leading the design. It was built at the initiative of the then governor of South Sulawesi to serve as a religious center for the whole region.
The name of this mosque contains the Arabic word for "center", reflecting its role as a gathering point for the Muslim community of Makassar. Inside the prayer hall, decorative motifs from the Arabian Peninsula sit alongside local South Sulawesi building traditions, which visitors can observe directly.
Visitors are welcome outside of prayer times, and modest dress is expected before entering any part of the building. The layout of the compound is straightforward, so finding the main areas does not require any preparation.
The back wall of the prayer hall is faced with black granite and carries Quran verses carved in brass-colored letters. This single wall draws the eye more than almost any other surface in the building.
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