Shah Faisal Mosque Faisal Masjid

 Where is Located Faisal Mosque?

The Faisal Mosque, one of the most iconic landmarks of Islamabad, Pakistan, holds immense cultural, religious, and architectural significance. Not only is it the largest mosque in Pakistan, but it also stands as a symbol of modern Islamic architecture, designed to blend with the natural beauty of the Margalla Hills. 

In this article, we explore its history, architectural marvel, significance, and all that makes the Faisal Mosque a global attraction.

2. History Of Faisal Mosque 


Who Built Faisal Mosque? 

The Faisal Mosque was designed by the Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, with the support of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, after whom the mosque is named. It was inaugurated in 1986 and has become a symbol of cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

When Was Faisal Mosque Built? 

Construction of the mosque began in 1976 and was completed in 1986, marking a decade of development that saw the mosque grow into an architectural marvel of its time.

Who Designed Faisal Mosque? 

The mosque’s design was conceptualized by Vedat Dalokay, and it was intended to reflect both modernity and tradition. The mosque’s tent-like shape is symbolic of the nomadic nature of early Islamic civilization, and it is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment of the Margalla Hills.

Faisal Mosque Prayer Timings 

Faisal Mosque has become the destination for Muslims seeking to perform their daily prayers. Its prayer timings are as follows:

  • Fajr (Dawn Prayer): 5:00 AM

  • Zuhr (Midday Prayer): 12:30 PM

  • Asr (Afternoon Prayer): 3:30 PM

  • Maghrib (Sunset Prayer): 6:30 PM

  • Isha (Night Prayer): 8:00 PM

Faisal Mosque Jumma (Friday Prayer) Timing 

Faisal Mosque holds special significance during Jumma (Friday) prayers. The mosque accommodates a large congregation, with prayers typically held at 1:30 PM.

Faisal Mosque – The Largest Mosque in Pakistan

The Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque in Pakistan, located in the national capital city of Islamabad. Completed in 1986, it was designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, shaped like a desert Bedouin’s tent, and is an iconic symbol of Islamabad throughout the world.

Location and Significance

Situated at the Foot of Margalla Hills

It is situated at the north end of Faisal Avenue, putting it at the northernmost end of the city and at the foot of Margalla Hills, the westernmost foothills of the Himalayas. It is located on an elevated area of land against a picturesque backdrop of the Margalla Hills. This enviable location represents the mosque’s great importance and allows it to be seen from miles around day and night.

The Origin and Funding of Faisal Mosque

The Concept and Vision of King Faisal bin Abdul-Aziz

The Faisal Mosque was conceived as the National Mosque of Pakistan and named after the late King Faisal bin Abdul-Aziz of Saudi Arabia, who supported and financed the project.

Construction and Funding

The mosque was funded by the government of Saudi Arabia, at a cost of over 130 million Saudi riyals (approximately 120 million USD today). King Faisal bin Abdul Aziz was instrumental in the funding, and both the mosque and the road leading to it were named after him after his assassination in 1975.

Architectural Design and Features

Unique and Modern Design

The mosque’s architecture is modern and unique, lacking both the traditional domes and arches of most other mosques around the world. The shape of the Faisal Mosque is an eight-sided concrete shell inspired by a desert Bedouin’s tent and the cubic Kaaba in Mecca, flanked by four unusual minarets inspired by Turkish architecture.

Inspiration from the Kaaba

The architect later explained his thinking to design school students: “I tried to capture the spirit, proportion, and geometry of Kaaba in a purely abstract manner…”

The Mosque’s Iconic Features

Minarets and Prayer Hall

The mosque features four pencil-like minarets inspired by Turkish architecture. The triangular prayer hall is also noteworthy. The mosque lacks a traditional dome, making it an unconventional design that blends modern lines with traditional Bedouin tent inspiration.

Interior Design and Artistic Contributions

The interior of the main tent-shaped hall is covered in white marble and decorated with mosaics and calligraphy by the famous Pakistani artist Sadequain, and a spectacular Turkish-style chandelier. The mosaic pattern adorns the west wall, with the kalimah written in early Kufic script, repeated in a mirror image pattern.

Additional Features and Facilities

Library, Lecture Hall, Museum, and Café

The mosque still houses a library, lecture hall, museum, and café, making it a center for both spiritual and educational activities. The International Islamic University, which was once housed under the main courtyard, has recently relocated to a new campus.

Faisal Mosque – A Landmark of Islamabad

An Iconic Symbol of Islamabad’s Beauty

The Faisal Mosque, with its striking design and location against the backdrop of Margalla Hills, is one of the most recognized landmarks in Islamabad. Its unique and modern design continues to capture the imagination of visitors from around the world.

Nearby Attractions

Nekka Phullai Hill and the Margalla Hills

Nekka Phullai is the adjacent hill to the mosque in Margalla Hills, adding to the picturesque beauty of the mosque’s location.

5. Faisal Mosque Cultural and Religious Events 


Faisal Mosque as a Cultural Hub 

Apart from being a place for prayer, Faisal Mosque has served as a venue for various cultural events, exhibitions, and conferences. Its vast expanse makes it ideal for hosting large-scale events, and it attracts international visitors regularly.

Nikkah Ceremony in Faisal Mosque 

The Faisal Mosque is a revered venue for conducting Nikkah ceremonies (Islamic marriage ceremonies). Many couples from around the world choose to get married in the mosque’s grand hall, surrounded by the mosque’s serene and awe-inspiring environment.

6. Faisal Mosque Visitor Information

Where Is Faisal Mosque Located? 

Located at the foot of the Margalla Hills in Islamabad, Pakistan, the Faisal Mosque is easily accessible from all parts of the city. The mosque is situated near major road networks, with excellent transport connectivity.

Hotels Near Faisal Mosque 

For visitors planning to explore the mosque, numerous hotels are available in the vicinity. Some of the popular options include the Serena Hotel, Pearl Continental, and numerous guest houses offering quality accommodation.

Restaurants Near Faisal Mosque 

Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine at nearby restaurants like Monal, located on the hills, which offers breathtaking views of Islamabad and is a popular spot for dining after a visit to the mosque.

7. Faisal Mosque A Popular Tourist Destination 

Faisal Mosque Photos and Pictures 

The stunning beauty of the Faisal Mosque attracts photographers and tourists from all over the world. The mosque’s unique design, surrounded by the picturesque Margalla Hills, provides a perfect backdrop for breathtaking photos.

Faisal Mosque Inside View 

The interior of the Faisal Mosque is as grand as its exterior. With its expansive prayer hall, intricate Islamic calligraphy, and marble flooring, the inside of the mosque offers a serene space for reflection and worship.

8. Key Features and Benefits of Faisal Mosque 

Faisal Mosque Capacity 

The Faisal Mosque can accommodate approximately 100,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest mosques in the world in terms of capacity.

Faisal Mosque’s Impact on Islamic Architecture 

Faisal Mosque is a beacon of modern Islamic architecture. Its innovative design and use of local materials have set a new standard for mosque designs globally, inspiring countless future mosque constructions worldwide.

Why Is Faisal Mosque Famous? 

Global Recognition and Iconic Status?

Faisal Mosque is renowned for its architectural beauty, unique design, and cultural significance. It is recognized worldwide as one of the most important Islamic landmarks, and its stature as an architectural icon continues to grow.

Faisal Mosque as a Symbol of Unity 

Faisal Mosque represents the unity of the Muslim world. Built with the support of King Faisal, the mosque symbolizes the strong bond between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, as well as the broader Islamic community.

FAQs


1. Who built the Faisal Mosque?

Faisal Mosque was built by the Saudi government with the initiative of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. It was designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay.

2. When was Faisal Mosque built?

The construction of Faisal Mosque started in 1976 and was completed in 1986.

3. When was Faisal Mosque built?

Faisal Mosque was built between 1976 and 1986.

4. Where is Faisal Mosque located?

Faisal Mosque is located in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan.

5. Where is Faisal Mosque?

Faisal Mosque is situated in the Margalla Hills National Park, on the foothills of the Margalla Hills, in Islamabad, Pakistan.

6. How to make a Faisal Mosque?

Making a model of Faisal Mosque involves designing its unique geometric structure and tent-like shape. For a basic approach, you would use materials like cardboard, clay, and wooden sticks to construct the mosque’s dome, minarets, and roof.

7. When was the Shah Faisal Mosque built?

Shah Faisal Mosque was built from 1976 to 1986, under the direction of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia.

8. Who constructed the Faisal Mosque?

Faisal Mosque was constructed by the Saudi government, with the support of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. The construction was carried out by a team of local workers and engineers under the supervision of the Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay.

9. How to draw the Faisal Mosque?

To draw the Faisal Mosque, start by sketching the base as a large rectangular shape, followed by the iconic tent-like roof and four towering minarets. Focus on adding intricate details like the patterns and the mosque’s geometric shapes.

10. How to draw Faisal Mosque step by step?


  • Begin with drawing the main rectangular base.
  • Add four slender minarets at each corner.
  • Draw the triangular, tent-like structure on top.
  • Sketch the intricate patterns on the dome and minarets.
  • Add shading and textures to give depth and dimension to the mosque.

11. How to make a 3D model of Faisal Mosque?

To create a 3D model of Faisal Mosque, use materials like foam, clay, or 3D printing. Start by designing the rectangular base, then add four long minarets. Construct the iconic triangular roof on top. Paint it to match the mosque’s colors and intricate details.

12. How to make a Faisal Mosque model?

Making a model of Faisal Mosque involves creating a scale version using materials like cardboard or foam. Focus on the unique roof, the four minarets, and geometric patterns. Make sure to capture the overall structure, and you can use paint or markers to detail the design.

13. When did Faisal Mosque open to the public?

Faisal Mosque was opened to the public in 1986 after its completion.

14. When was Faisal Mosque completed?

Faisal Mosque was completed in 1986, after a decade-long construction process.

15. Who built the Shah Faisal Mosque?

Shah Faisal Mosque was built with funding from the Saudi government, and the construction was supervised under the leadership of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia.

16. Who built the Faisal Mosque?

The Faisal Mosque was built with contributions from the Saudi government and designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay.

17. Who designed the Faisal Mosque?

The architect of Faisal Mosque is Vedat Dalokay, a Turkish architect who designed its unique and modern structure.

18. Who is the architect of Faisal Mosque?

The architect of the Faisal Mosque is Vedat Dalokay from Turkey.

19. Who made the Faisal Mosque?

Faisal Mosque was made by the Saudi government, and its construction was led by the Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay.

20. Why is Faisal Mosque famous?

Faisal Mosque is famous for its unique and modern design, which resembles a Bedouin tent. It is also the largest mosque in Pakistan and one of the largest in the world. The mosque is iconic in Islamabad due to its location and architectural style.

21. Why Faisal Mosque is famous?

Faisal Mosque is famous for its striking contemporary architecture and its importance as a religious and cultural landmark in Pakistan. It is an iconic symbol of Islamabad.

Conclusion 

The Faisal Mosque is a true marvel that beautifully combines modern design, cultural significance, and religious importance. It stands as a symbol of faith, unity, and innovation in the Islamic world. 

Whether you are visiting for worship, cultural events, or simply to admire its architecture, the Faisal Mosque remains one of the most celebrated landmarks in Pakistan.

As you explore the mosque, take the time to reflect on its history, architecture, and the unique role it plays in the Islamic world. The Faisal Mosque is not only a place of worship, but a global symbol of peace, cooperation, and architectural brilliance.

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