Xiguan Mosque, Islamic place of worship in downtown Lanzhou, China.
Xiguan Mosque is a four-story religious complex in downtown Lanzhou featuring a circular main hall supported by twenty arches on its ground level. The structure extends vertically across multiple floors, with upper levels primarily designated for prayer activities.
The mosque was founded during the Ming Dynasty and underwent significant reconstruction in 1684. Additional expansions followed in the early 1700s, shaping the building's current appearance.
The prayer hall blends Islamic design with Chinese decorative elements visible on wooden pillars and carved details. This fusion shows how two traditions have come together within a single sacred space.
Visitors should know that the lower levels contain washing facilities and separate prayer areas that help with orientation throughout the building. It is helpful to take time exploring the different rooms and understanding their purposes.
The building integrates classic Chinese roof forms with Islamic design elements, an architectural approach that was uncommon for its time. This blending of two building traditions makes it a rare example of cultural exchange in northern China.
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