Are you looking for a unique and memorable experience in Singapore? Do you want to explore the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the city-state? If yes, then you should not miss visiting the Sultan Mosque, one of the most iconic and impressive landmarks in Singapore.
The Sultan Mosque, also known as Masjid Sultan, is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and art. It is located in the heart of Kampong Glam, the historic Arabic Quarter of Singapore. The mosque is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of the city’s multiculturalism and tolerance.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about visiting the Sultan Mosque, such as its history, architecture, location, and attractions. We will also share some tips and advice for making the most of your visit. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or a culture enthusiast, you will find something to admire and appreciate at the Sultan Mosque.
History of the Sultan Mosque
The Sultan Mosque has a long and fascinating history that dates back to 1824. It was originally built by Sultan Hussein Shah, the first sultan of Singapore, with the help of a generous grant from the British East India Company. The mosque was intended to serve as the focal point of the Muslim community in Singapore, especially the Malay and Arab traders who settled in Kampong Glam.
The mosque was completed in 1826 and became a prominent landmark in the area. However, by the late 19th century, the mosque was in need of repair and expansion due to the growing population and the deterioration of the building. In 1924, the mosque was demolished and rebuilt in its current form, with a larger capacity and a more elaborate design.
The new mosque was designed by Denis Santry, an architect from Swan and Maclaren, the oldest architectural firm in Singapore. The mosque was inspired by the Moorish, Indo-Saracenic, and Malay styles of architecture, creating a unique and harmonious blend of influences. The mosque was completed in 1932 and officially opened by Sultan Ibrahim of Johor, the son of Sultan Hussein Shah.
The mosque underwent several renovations and restorations over the years, most notably in 1968, 1985, and 2016. The mosque was also gazetted as a national monument in 1975, in recognition of its historical and cultural significance. Today, the mosque remains a vibrant and active place of worship, as well as a popular tourist attraction.
Architecture and Furnishings of the Sultan Mosque
The Sultan Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and art, with many features and details that showcase its beauty and elegance. The most striking feature of the mosque is its golden domes, which dominate the skyline of Kampong Glam. The main dome is 27 meters in diameter and 36 meters in height, and is surrounded by four smaller domes and six minarets.
The domes are covered with glass bottles, which were donated by the poor members of the Muslim community who could not afford to contribute cash for the construction of the mosque. The glass bottles reflect the sunlight and create a dazzling effect, especially at dawn and dusk. The glass bottles also symbolize the inclusiveness and generosity of the mosque, as everyone was welcome to participate in its building.
The interior of the mosque is equally impressive, with stained-glass windows, geometric patterns, and Arabic calligraphy adorning the walls and ceilings. The windows depict various motifs and scenes from the Quran, such as the Kaaba, the Garden of Eden, and the Prophet’s Mosque. The patterns and calligraphy are intricately carved and painted, creating a sense of harmony and balance.
The main hall of the mosque is where the prayer sessions take place, and can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers. The hall is divided into two sections, one for men and one for women, separated by a wooden screen. The hall is also equipped with a sound system, a video screen, and a digital clock that displays the prayer times.
The focal point of the hall is the mihrab, a niche in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca, the holy city of Islam. The mihrab is decorated with a golden arch and a green curtain, and is flanked by two pulpits, one for the imam (the leader of the prayer) and one for the khatib (the preacher of the sermon). The mihrab is also surrounded by chandeliers and fans that provide illumination and ventilation.
How to Visit the Sultan Mosque
The Sultan Mosque is located at 3 Muscat Street, in the heart of Kampong Glam. It is easily accessible by public transport, such as MRT, bus, or taxi. The nearest MRT station is Bugis, which is about a 10-minute walk from the mosque. There are also several bus stops nearby, such as Bef Sultan Mosque, Opp Sultan Mosque, and Sultan Plaza. Alternatively, you can take a taxi and ask the driver to drop you off at the mosque.
The mosque is open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, except on Fridays, when it is closed from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm for the weekly congregational prayer. The mosque is also closed during the five daily prayer times, which vary according to the lunar calendar. You can check the prayer times on the mosque’s website or on the digital clock at the entrance.
The best time to visit the mosque is in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the crowd is smaller. You can also visit the mosque during the Ramadan month, which is the holy month of fasting and charity for Muslims. During this time, the mosque is decorated with lights and lanterns, and hosts various events and activities, such as lectures, exhibitions, and bazaars.
The mosque is free to enter, but you are encouraged to make a donation to support its maintenance and preservation. You can also buy a souvenir from the mosque’s gift shop, such as a postcard, a magnet, or a keychain. The proceeds from the sales go to the mosque’s fund and charity projects.
Some tips and advice for visiting the Sultan Mosque
The mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds, but there are some rules and etiquette that you need to follow. Here are some tips and advice for visiting the Sultan Mosque:
- Dress modestly and respectfully. You should cover your shoulders, knees, and ankles, and avoid wearing any revealing or tight-fitting clothes. You can also borrow a robe or a shawl from the mosque’s reception counter, free of charge.
- Remove your shoes before entering the mosque. You can leave your shoes at the designated racks or shelves, or carry them with you in a plastic bag. You should also wear socks or stockings, as the floor may be cold or wet.
- Do not take photos or videos inside the prayer hall, as this may disturb the worshippers. You can take photos or videos outside the prayer hall, but do not use flash or tripod, and do not point your camera directly at the mihrab or the pulpit.
- Keep quiet and avoid talking loudly or laughing inside the mosque. You should also turn off your phone or switch it to silent mode, and do not play any music or games.
- Respect the worshippers and do not interrupt or join them in their prayer. You can observe them from a distance, but do not touch or stare at them. You should also avoid walking in front of them or crossing their prayer mats.
- Join a guided tour to learn more about the mosque and its history, architecture, and culture. The guided tours are conducted by volunteers from the mosque, and are available in English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. The tours are free of charge, but you need to register in advance on the mosque’s website or at the reception counter. The tours last for about an hour, and are held from Monday to Saturday, at 10:00 am, 11:30 am, 2:00 pm, and 3:30 pm.
Nearby Attractions and Activities in Kampong Glam
The Sultan Mosque is not the only attraction in Kampong Glam. The area is full of other places to see and things to do, such as cafes, restaurants, shops, and murals. Here are some of the nearby attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Kampong Glam:
- Explore the Malay Heritage Centre, a museum that showcases the history and culture of the Malay community in Singapore. The museum is housed in a former palace of Sultan Hussein Shah, and features six permanent galleries and a rotating exhibition. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the admission fee is $6 for adults and $4 for students and seniors.
- Shop at the Haji Lane, a hip and trendy street that is lined with boutiques, cafes, bars, and art galleries. You can find a variety of items, such as clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and handicrafts, at affordable prices. You can also admire the colorful and creative murals that adorn the walls and buildings along the street.
- Eat at the Zam Zam Restaurant, a famous and popular eatery that serves authentic and delicious Indian-Muslim cuisine. The restaurant is best known for its murtabak, a stuffed and fried bread with meat and egg filling, and its briyani, a fragrant and spicy rice dish with meat and vegetable curry.
- Visit the Arab Street, a lively and vibrant street that is famous for its textile and fabric shops. You can find a wide range of materials, such as silk, cotton, lace, and batik, in various colors, patterns, and designs. You can also buy other items, such as carpets, lamps, perfumes, and spices, at the shops and stalls along the street.
- Relax at the Bussorah Street, a pedestrian-only street that is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shophouses. You can enjoy a cup of coffee, a slice of cake, or a meal at one of the cozy and charming eateries, while watching the people and the scenery. You can also find some souvenirs and gifts at the souvenir shops and art galleries along the street.
- Learn at the Madrasah Alsagoff, the oldest and most prestigious Islamic school in Singapore. The school was founded in 1912 by Syed Mohamed b Ahmad Alsagoff, a prominent and wealthy Arab merchant and philanthropist. The school is known for its high academic standards and its beautiful Arabic-style building. The school is open to visitors by appointment only, and you can arrange a visit by contacting the school’s administration.
The Sultan Mosque is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to experience the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Singapore. The mosque is not only a place of worship, but also a place of learning, appreciation, and inspiration. By visiting the mosque, you will not only admire its stunning architecture and art, but also discover its history and culture. You will also enjoy the nearby attractions and activities in Kampong Glam, which offer a glimpse into the vibrant and colorful life of the Malay and Arab community in Singapore.
We hope that this article has given you a comprehensive and informative guide to visiting the Sultan Mosque. We also hope that you have found some tips and advice that will help you make the most of your visit. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or a culture enthusiast, you will find something to admire and appreciate at the Sultan Mosque.
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