Jummah Mosque, Port Louis
The Jummah Mosque is a historically significant mosque that dates back to the 1850s. Initially, a house on the property was used as a temporary place of worship while the mosque was being constructed. In 1853, the mosque was consecrated, and it was initially known as the "Mosque of the Arabs" after its founders, who were mistakenly believed to be Arabs.
Over time, the Muslim community in Port-Louis grew, and the mosque needed to be expanded to accommodate more worshippers. Several lots around the mosque were purchased between 1857 and 1877 by Muslim merchants and donated to the mosque. The expansion works began in 1878 and were overseen by Jackaria Jan Mahomed, but disease and a shortage of construction supplies delayed the completion until 1895.
Today, the Jummah Mosque is an impressive blend of Indian, Creole, and Islamic architecture. The mosque's design incorporates Moorish and Mughal influences, and it occupies an entire city block. The former Mosque of the Arabs has been integrated into the expanded building and serves as the main prayer hall. The prayer hall is illuminated by beautiful glass chandeliers.
One of the most interesting features of the Jummah Mosque is the Indian almond or badamia tree that stands in the middle of the courtyard. This tree was already present on the land when it was purchased in 1852, and it has remained an important part of the mosque's history and heritage.
The Jummah Mosque also has a unique historical significance, as it houses the remains of Jamal Shah, a pir from Kutch, India. His marble tomb is located next to the mosque, and it is a popular destination for visitors who come to pay their respects.
Over time, the Muslim community in Port-Louis grew, and the mosque needed to be expanded to accommodate more worshippers. Several lots around the mosque were purchased between 1857 and 1877 by Muslim merchants and donated to the mosque. The expansion works began in 1878 and were overseen by Jackaria Jan Mahomed, but disease and a shortage of construction supplies delayed the completion until 1895.
Today, the Jummah Mosque is an impressive blend of Indian, Creole, and Islamic architecture. The mosque's design incorporates Moorish and Mughal influences, and it occupies an entire city block. The former Mosque of the Arabs has been integrated into the expanded building and serves as the main prayer hall. The prayer hall is illuminated by beautiful glass chandeliers.
One of the most interesting features of the Jummah Mosque is the Indian almond or badamia tree that stands in the middle of the courtyard. This tree was already present on the land when it was purchased in 1852, and it has remained an important part of the mosque's history and heritage.
The Jummah Mosque also has a unique historical significance, as it houses the remains of Jamal Shah, a pir from Kutch, India. His marble tomb is located next to the mosque, and it is a popular destination for visitors who come to pay their respects.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Port Louis. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Jummah Mosque on Map
Sight Name: Jummah Mosque
Sight Location: Port Louis, Mauritius (See walking tours in Port Louis)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Port Louis, Mauritius (See walking tours in Port Louis)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Port Louis, Mauritius
Create Your Own Walk in Port Louis
Creating your own self-guided walk in Port Louis is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Port Louis Introduction Walking Tour
Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a colorful blend of French, Indian, and African influences. Nestled on the northwest coast of the island, this major commercial port boasts a wealth of colonial past carefully preserved and reflected in local architecture.
Initially a Dutch harbor known as Harbour of Tortoises in 1606, the city became the administrative center of Mauritius under French... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Initially a Dutch harbor known as Harbour of Tortoises in 1606, the city became the administrative center of Mauritius under French... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles