Overview:

Sidi Okba Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Biskra, is a historic mosque located in Biskra, Algeria. The mosque dates back to the 12th century and is home to the tomb of the revered Arab leader and Muslim saint, Sidi Okba Ibn Nafi. The mosque is a major pilgrimage site for Muslims in Algeria and is renowned for its beautiful architecture and decoration, including verses from the Quran written in Kufic script. The mosque also houses several important manuscripts and religious artifacts, making it a worthwhile attraction for both spiritual and historical exploration. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Algeria
Prominent Features:

One of the prominent features of the city of Biskra in Algeria is Sidi Okba Mosque. The mosque is a 12th century monument built in honor of Sheikh Sidi Okba bin Nafi, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. The monument is composed of two towers flanking a central dome, and it is considered a fine example of Islamic architecture. It has become a symbol of Biskra, featuring on postcards and street signs. Moreover, it is the oldest mosque in the area, and it remains a pilgrimage site for Muslims. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Algeria.

History:

Sidi Okba Ibn Nafi Mosque in modern day Biskra, Algeria is believed to have been built during the Ayyubid Dynasty in the 12th century CE by the famous North African explorer and Quranic scholar, Sidi Okba Ibn Nafi. It is said to have been built atop the grave of Sidi Okba, which is now located in the northeast corner of the courtyard. The mosque was constructed in the style typically seen in Islamic architecture – a large central prayer hall surrounded by smaller surrounding prayer chambers and several minarets. The mosque was constructed out of mud-brick, and was decorated with traditional adornments typical of the area. One interesting feature is the qibla wall, which is the wall in a mosque that should face in the direction of Mecca when praying. This mosque has unique features including a chamber underneath the floor, which is believed to be Sidi Okba's mausoleum. An interesting story related to the mosque is that it was said to have been struck by lightning during its construction. This made Okba believe that the mosque was meant to be a holy place and so he named it accordingly. Sidi Okba Mosque has been renovated many times, and in the 20th century, a minaret was added to the building. The mosque is a popular tourist destination and is also used by local Muslims for congregational prayer. The mosque is said to have been built by Sidi Okba, regarded as one of the greatest religious authorities in North Africa, who travelled extensively and played a pivotal role in spreading Islam. He is said to be the one responsible for introducing the Quran to the Berber people. He is also credited with introducing the doctrine of Shi'a Islam in the region. His influence in North Africa was great and he is still revered and respected in Algeria today. Visit one of the famous monuments of Algeria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Sidi Okba Mosque is one of the oldest and most important mosques in Algeria. 2. The mosque dates back to the year 664 A.D., and is named after the legendary companion of the Prophet Muhammad, Sidi Okba. 3. The mosque was originally built as a koubba, a small domed pavilion for praying, however, it was later expanded to its current size. 4. Sidi Okba Mosque is the burial site of the Berber warrior and warrior king Abdelwahab Osmane and his wife Zohra, which also makes it a pilgrimage site for many. 5. The mihrab inside the mosque is stylized with beautiful blue and white tiles, making it one of the more beautiful mosques in Algeria. One of the historical monuments of Algeria, it tells the story of a bygone era