Overview:

Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque is one of the most important Islamic shrines in Cyprus. Located in Larnaca on the southern coast of the island, it is believed to be the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammed's aunt Umm Haram. The site is considered to be a pilgrimage destination for Muslims and even some Christians. Built over an ancient ruins, it consists of a small but exquisitely designed mosque, a graveyard, a prayer room, and several tombs. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

1. Ancient Islamic History: Hala Sultan Tekke was built in 648 AD as the symbol of Muslim heritage in Cyprus. 2. Iconic Minaret: The distinctive three-tiered minaret, which is the tallest in Larnaca, rises over the mosque and its striking view overlooks the seawater. 3. Historic Cemetery: Hala Sultan Tekke is the site of an ancient burial ground, with tombs dating back to the seventh century. 4. Lattice Windows: The mosque has intricate latticework windows decorated with calligraphic texts from the Koran. 5. Open Courtyard: It has an open courtyard which, in the past, served as a point of gathering for pilgrims and worshippers. 6. Curved Wall: The curved wall of the mosque is built from thick stone blocks and contains six large arches with a curved cornice. 7. Intricately Carved Doors: It has enormous wood doors, thought to be original, that are intricately carved with Islamic symbols. 8. Beautiful Mosaics: The interior of the mosque is decorated with stunning geometric mosaics. This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque in Larnaca is one of the most important Islamic mosques in all of Cyprus. Located on the southwest edge of Larnaca Salt Lake, the mosque stands as a monument to the historical and spiritual importance of the region for centuries. The mosque is believed to have been originally built in the 12th century during the Lusignan Period. It is thought to have served as a tomb for Umm Haram, an aunt of the Prophet Mohammad, who died while traveling with an army of Arab Muslims who had recently conquered Cyprus in 648 AD. In subsequent centuries, the mosque was an important center for the local Muslim community and was used as a staging post to the Levant as well as the spiritual center of southern Cyprus. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque underwent numerous renovations. An oriental gateway was added during renovation in the 16th century, while the stucco facade, minbar, mihrab and other features were added during renovations in the 17th century. During the Ottoman Empire, the mosque was a significant center of Islamic thought, as well as a place of Hajj pilgrimage for locals. Under modern control, it has become a popular tourist attraction and is one of the most visited sites in Cyprus. The mosque is part of a complex that includes a madrasa (school), mausoleum, and a number of other minor buildings. The mosque’s distinct blue dome remains one of the most iconic structures of the city and is well known on Instagram and other social media platforms. Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque is now a protected monument and is open for public tours. Public offerings and ceremonies are still held here on special occasions, such as the Hala Sultan Festival which is celebrated every year on the Muslim holy day of Ashura. The mosque is a symbol of the spiritual and cultural history of Cyprus and remains a popular attraction for both tourists and local worshippers. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque is located on the banks of the Salt Lake of Larnaca, Cyprus and is one of the most important Muslim shrines outside of the Arabian Peninsula. 2. Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque is believed to be the burial site of Umm Haram, the Prophet Muhammad’s aunt and paternal foster mother. 3. The mosque is a rare example of Mamluk-style architecture, as it was built during the Middle Ages. 4. It also has the difference of being the only mosque in the island to be located outside of the cities and towns. 5. The mosque’s name is derived from the Turkish word Tekke, meaning “monastery”. 6. Its courtyard houses the remains of a wooden minbar, a pulpit usually found in larger mosques. 7. Each year on the 15th day of Shawwal or the third month of the Islamic calendar, devotees from around the world gather at the mosque in remembrance of Umm Haram. 8. The complex is also home to a museum exhibiting archaeological discoveries found in and around the mosque. 9. The mosque is accessible to visitors, however females are expected to wear modest covering and all visitors are required to take their shoes off before entering the prayer area. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.