Dakar Grand Mosque
Dakar
The Grand Mosque of Dakar, located in the Dakar médina on Allée Pape Gueye Fall, is a prominent Islamic religious site in Senegal. Designed collaboratively by Moroccan and French architects, the mosque was inaugurated in 1964 by King Hassan II of Morocco and Senegalese President Léopold Sédar Senghor. Its most striking feature is the 67-meter (220 feet) tall minaret, which makes it one of the tallest structures in Dakar. The mosque's architecture is richly decorated both inside and out, bearing stylistic resemblance to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat. Within the mosque complex is the Islamic Institute of Dakar, established the same year as the mosque, which serves as a public institution dedicated to Islamic research and education under the Senegalese Ministry of Education. The Institute also houses a library named after Prince Naef Ben Abdelaziz Al-Saoud, opened in 2004. The Grand Mosque remains a vital center for worship and Islamic scholarship in Senegal.
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Tip: Visitors should consider attending during non-prayer times for sightseeing, as the mosque is an active place of worship. The best time to visit is during the morning hours when the light enhances the mosque's intricate decorations. It is advisable to dress modestly and respect local customs. While entrance is generally free, donations are welcome. Booking guided tours in advance may enhance the experience by providing deeper historical and cultural context.
Interesting facts
- •The mosque's minaret stands 67 meters (220 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest structures in Dakar.
- •Its architectural style closely resembles the Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco.
- •The Islamic Institute of Dakar, located within the mosque complex, was established in 1964 and is a key center for Islamic research and education in Senegal.
- •The library of the Islamic Institute is named after Prince Naef Ben Abdelaziz Al-Saoud and was opened in 2004.
History
The Grand Mosque of Dakar was constructed and inaugurated in 1964 as a symbol of Islamic faith and cultural connection between Senegal and Morocco.
It was designed by a team of Moroccan and French architects, reflecting a blend of architectural styles.
The mosque's opening was presided over by King Hassan II of Morocco and Senegalese President Léopold Sédar Senghor, marking a significant diplomatic and cultural milestone.
Over the years, the mosque has become a central religious site in Dakar, also hosting the Islamic Institute of Dakar which was founded simultaneously to promote Islamic education and research.
The library within the Institute was later inaugurated in 2004, further enhancing the mosque's role as a scholarly hub.
Place Guide
Minaret1964
The mosque's 67-meter tall minaret is a prominent landmark visible throughout Dakar, showcasing intricate Islamic architectural details and serving as a call to prayer tower.
Islamic Institute of Dakar1964
Located within the mosque's enclosure, this institute is dedicated to Islamic education and research, operating under the Senegalese Ministry of Education. It includes a significant library named after Prince Naef Ben Abdelaziz Al-Saoud.
Contact
Phone: 012 21268200
