KING ABDULLAH I MOSQUE

It took 7 years to complete the construction of this mosque, the largest in the country. Built between 1982 and 1989 in honor of King Hussein's grandfather, His Majesty as-Sayyid Abdullah I, the first king of Jordan, this mosque is the most modern and most imposing in the country. Its gigantic blue dome lined with mosaics with geometric patterns dominates the city. Under the 35 meters diameter of the dome, the prayer hall can accommodate 3,000 worshippers. On busy days, such as Friday prayers during Ramadan, an additional 6,000 worshippers can take over the outer courtyard. Inside, the ceiling of the azure dome is streaked with thin golden bands like a sun, the blue symbolizing the sky, and the lines the 99 names of Allah. Verses from the Koran are inscribed on a huge three-branched candlestick. The red carpet symbolizes fertility; it leads to the "mihrab", the niche that indicates the direction of Mecca, to which all faithful must turn for prayer. In the basement there is a small Islamic museum with personal effects of King Abdullah I, photos and some Islamic art.

Non-Muslims can visit the mosque outside of prayer hours. Women are required to wear an outfit that covers arms, legs and head. A black hooded robe is provided at the entrance for this purpose. Men must wear pants (no shorts). Please remember to remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.