If you’re visiting Damascus, one place you absolutely shouldn’t miss is the Umayyad Mosque—also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus. It’s one of the oldest and most important mosques in the world, and it has a fascinating backstory that brings together different civilizations, religions, and empires all in one place.
📍 Where is it?
It’s located in the heart of the Old City of Damascus, surrounded by traditional markets (souks), historic streets, and local cafés. You can easily walk to it if you’re staying in or near the Old City.
🕰️ A Quick History
- Originally, the site was a temple to Hadad, an Aramean god, around the 9th century BCE.
- Then it became the Temple of Jupiter during the Roman period.
- In the 4th century, it was turned into a Christian basilica dedicated to John the Baptist, whose tomb is still inside the mosque today.
- In 705 CE, the Umayyad Caliph Al-Walid I converted it into a mosque. It took 10 years to build.
So, when you visit the mosque, you’re standing on over 3,000 years of history.
🕌 What Makes It Special?
- Architectural Fusion: The mosque mixes Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic styles. You’ll notice Byzantine mosaics, Corinthian columns, and Islamic arches all in one place.
- Huge Prayer Hall: It’s 136 meters long and 37 meters wide—designed to host thousands of worshippers at once.
- Courtyard Capacity: The open courtyard can hold up to 30,000 people.
- Mihrabs and Domes: There are four mihrabs (prayer niches) and three domes, including the famous Dome of the Eagle, which rises 36 meters high.
- Minarets: The mosque has three minarets:
- Minaret of the Bride (oldest),
- Minaret of Jesus (believed to be where Jesus will return at the end of times),
- Western Minaret (added later by the Mamluks).
- John the Baptist’s Shrine: A beautiful marble tomb holds what is believed to be the head of John the Baptist (Prophet Yahya). It’s an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and Christians alike.
🔥 Fun Facts
- It was once the largest mosque in the world.
- Craftsmen from across the empire—Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Arabs—were hired to build it.
- The mosque was damaged several times by earthquakes and fires (especially in 1893), but it was always restored.
- The mosque also acted as a center of science and learning in the 12th century, with schools for medicine, astronomy, and engineering.
👟 What to Expect When You Visit
- Dress code: Modest clothing is required. Women will be asked to wear a robe provided at the entrance.
- Entry: 25000 SYP for non-Muslim foreigners and free for Muslims.
- Opening Hours: Open from 9am till 9pm.
- Atmosphere: Peaceful, spacious, and deeply spiritual—even for non-Muslims.
✅ Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re into history, architecture, religion, or simply want to experience something deeply authentic and unique, the Umayyad Mosque is a must-see. It’s a place where you can touch ancient walls, admire centuries-old mosaics, and stand at the crossroads of three major religions—all in one visit.