Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque: An Architectural Delight in Brunei
In the glittering expanse of South East Asia, lies the tiny nation of Brunei – known for its affluent culture, ornate mosques and exquisite architecture. One of the most iconic symbols of this nation is Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, also known as the Kiarong Mosque, which is a majestic sight to behold.
Built in 1992, this mosque is a testament to the country’s architectural grandeur and is a popular tourist attraction for visitors. Here is a brief overview of this architectural marvel.
About Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the largest mosque in Brunei and the second largest in Southeast Asia. It was built to commemorate the 25th year of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah’s reign in the country. The mosque features intricate architectural details and is surrounded by lush gardens and a large pond, making it a perfect spot for visitors to relax and take in the beauty of the building.
The mosque is built in a modern Islamic style and features a large dome and four minarets. The interior is adorned with geometric patterns and intricate carvings, and the walls are decorated with verses from the Quran. The mosque also features a huge chandelier, which is one of the largest in the world.
What to See at Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
The largest attraction at the Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the grand prayer hall. The hall features a large marble floor and a high ceiling with ornate decorations. The hall can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers at once. The mosque also features a library, a museum, a conference room, and a cafe.
The mosque is open to visitors throughout the week, but visitors must adhere to the dress code. Men must wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, while women must wear a headscarf and long-sleeved clothing.
How to Get to Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque
The Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is located in the Kampong Kiarong area, which is a short drive from the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan. The nearest airport is Brunei International Airport, which is located approximately 25 kilometers away from the mosque.
Visitors can also take a bus from the city center or hire a taxi to get to the mosque. The mosque is open for visitors from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays, and from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekends.
Conclusion
Jame’Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is a beautiful and majestic example of Islamic architecture in Brunei. The mosque features intricate carvings and decorations and is surrounded by lush gardens and a large pond. Visitors can explore the grand prayer hall, the library, museum, and cafe. The mosque is easily accessible by bus or taxi from the city center and is open to visitors throughout the week.