Nizamiye Masjid, Ottoman mosque in Midrand, South Africa
The Nizamiye Masjid is a prayer hall built in Ottoman style located in Midrand and topped with a large central dome. The complex also includes a school, a medical clinic, a bazaar with shops, and a Turkish restaurant that together serve the local community.
The building was constructed between 2009 and 2012 following the vision of a Turkish businessman who wanted a mosque designed according to Ottoman principles. The project merged modern construction techniques with classical architectural forms to create a prayer house that was new to the region.
The name references an Indian dynasty and reflects the place's openness to various cultures from around the world. Inside, visitors can see detailed tilework, mosaics, and painted surfaces created by Turkish artisans who brought their traditional techniques to South Africa.
The site is open to non-Muslims who approach it respectfully and follow local customs, making it accessible for all visitors. Wearing comfortable shoes is advisable as the complex spreads across multiple buildings and outdoor areas that take time to explore thoroughly.
The building was designed as a reproduction of a famous mosque in Turkey and holds the distinction of being the largest prayer hall in the Southern Hemisphere. This makes it a remarkable place for visitors interested in religious architecture found in unexpected parts of the world.
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