The magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a must-visit for anyone who steps into Muscat, Oman. Built in 2001 in honour of the former Sultan of Oman, Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, this mosque is a masterpiece that shows excellence and precise attention to detail in its architecture. Here are some interesting facts you should know about the place.
One of the Largest Domes in the World
The central dome of the mosque is one of the largest of its kind in the world, with 14 metres in height and 50 metres in diameter. The magnificent chandelier at the centre is made of Swarovski crystals and amplifies the look of the dome to serve grandeur. You can pay a visit to check these for yourself during your stay at Desert Nights Camp, undoubtedly the most unique and best hotel in Oman.
Largest Prayer Rugs in the World
Woven by 600 Iranian women back in the day, the prayer rug at the mosque is one of the largest in the world, measuring 60 by 70 metres. The rug took four years to be completed by these carpet weavers and weighs around 20 tons. Their dedication and commitment can be seen in the intricate details of the rug.
Unique Features
The mosque is designed to cool down naturally with no requirement for air conditioning, as the water channels and fountains evaporate water and cool the air inside the mosque. The ventilation system helps the proves by allowing cool air to flow inside and hot air to flow out through the mosque’s roof. It is a fascinating task to study the mosque and its architectural brilliance.
