In Manama, the capital of Bahrain, there is a tourist attraction, which it is impossible to pass by. This Al Fatih is a mosque, which is of great importance for the city, as it is its symbol.
The name of the mosque was on behalf of Sheikh Ahmadal-Fatih - the conqueror of Bahrain. The foundation was laid in 1984, and construction was conducted under the leadership of Isa ibn Salman al-Khalifa, the father of the current sheik of the country, Hamad ibn Isa al-Khalif. The erection of the temple took 4 years. At work the most expensive materials were used: the floor and walls are made of Italian marble, the doors are made of Indian teak wood, and the dome weighing 60 tons is made of fiberglass. At the moment this is the largest dome in the world.
The territory of the mosque occupies 6500 square meters.m and accommodates 7000 believers at the same time. In the Great Hall hangs a chandelier brought from Austria, and the walls are painted with quotations from the Koran one of the ancient styles of Arabic writing - Kufi. Also Al Fatih mosque, whose structure plan interests visitors, includes parking, a patio, a large hall for men, a top floor for women and two minarets about 70 meters high.
Initially, the minarets performed two roles:from them the muezzin called for prayer and it was easy for them to find a mosque. Today, only the second function remains, since the adhan (the call to prayer) is read through the microphone, and the voice is distributed through the speakers. During Muslim holidays and Friday prayers, the mosque is crowded.
Al Fatih is a mosque that is itself thea large mosque of Bahrain. It ranks 18th among the world's 20 largest mosques. At the same time, it can host 7,000 people. During Ramadan (the holy month for Muslims), quotes from the Koran are read here, and special holiday programs are held during the time of Id-ul-Fitr (Uraza Bayram).
The mosque also has a second name - the Islamic Centeral-Fatih, who is studying the Koran and Islamic culture. In 2006, the National Library of Bahrain was opened here. Here are developed programs for excursions, which are conducted by theologians. In a short time they tell not only the history of the mosque, but the foundations and functions of Islam, basic rituals and beliefs and compare it with other world religions. Also here are engaged in writing and publishing religious books, magazines and CDs, which are distributed free of charge. An oral test is conducted for muezzins - people who read adhan.
As for the library, its fund includes 7,000books, half of which was written more than a century ago. Also here are the certified copies of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (sas) and books that are written on the basis of hadiths - stories from his life. In addition, various Islamic periodicals and magazines can be found here, including the World Arabic Encyclopedia and the Al-Azhar magazine, the issues of which were published more than a hundred years ago, as well as other magazines and newspapers.
As the main symbol of the city of Al Fatih (mosque)is one of the mandatory places to visit. It is open to all comers every day, except on holidays and Fridays. At the entrance, women are given cloaks and a shawl, if they are not dressed in closed clothing.
There is a mosque in the Jaffar district, near the King's HighwayFaisal, near the Royal Bahraini Palace, the residence of the current ruler of the country. In days for a visit, guided tours of the complex, where guides tell not only about the Islamic religion, but also about the history of Bahrain.
For residents of Manama and citizens of Bahrain Al Fatih - a mosque of great importance. It is one of the most favorite places to visit and evokes in the people a sense of national pride.
As for tourists, they call ithuge in size and stunning in beauty and recommend to make it a list of places that are required to visit. Travelers note that there is a very friendly reception and incredibly interesting excursions. In addition, the mosque also united the library and the National Islamic Center. Therefore, it is worth noting in the notebook or notes on the smartphone address: Al Fatih Mosque, Bahrain, Jaffar district, King Faisal Highway.
