Umayyad Mosque

　　The Umayyad Mosque was built in 705 AD and is one of the most important mosques in Islam. It is considered the fourth holiest site in Islam and is located in Damascus, the capital of Syria. Originally, the site housed a Temple of Jupiter during the Roman Empire. After Christianity became the state religion of the Roman Empire, it was converted into the Church of St. John the Baptist. In 705 AD, Caliph Al-Walid I of the Umayyad Caliphate took over the church and transformed it into a mosque.

　　During the conversion, the rectangular layout of the church was preserved. The mosque features strong Islamic architectural elements, with its grand and magnificent structure adorned with luxurious decorations. The interior is supported by marble columns, intricately carved with delicate patterns, as well as artistic sculptures in red, black, and white marble inlaid with gold, gemstones, and shells. From afar, one can see its three exquisitely crafted minarets. Two of the mosque's tall towers were originally church bell towers, while the third minaret was built by Al-Walid I. In the courtyard stands a marble ablution fountain built in 976 AD for ritual washing. Historically, the Umayyad Mosque has been burned down three times. Today, it houses the tombs of both John the Baptist and Saladin.

　　Umayyad Mosque Reason to visit: One of the most important mosques in Islam Continent: Asia Country/Region: Syria Province/State: Damascus Governorate City: Damascus