Facts About Baiturrahman Grand Mosque — The Baiturrahman Mosque, situated in the city of Banda Aceh, Aceh, is one of Indonesia's most renowned mosques. It serves as an emblem of Aceh's pride and reflects the relentless fight of the Acehnese people to preserve their religion and culture. But, did you know that behind the mosque's magnificent beauty and grandeur, there are numerous captivating and unusual facts that you need to know? Here are some of the most intriguing ones:
1. By blending elements of Persian, Mughal, and Spanish architectural styles, a unique design was created.
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Aceh / @cappcinnnnn
The Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque is the foremost emblem of the Aceh province, renowned for its magnificent splendor and charming architectural features adorning every nook and cranny. Gerrit Bruins, a Dutch architect, conceptualized the mosque's overall design inspired by the Mughal Renaissance style.
This mosque, predominantly white, boasts striking wooden ornamental details that enhance its beauty. Furthermore, the mosque incorporates various Islamic philosophies, such as the presence of five domes symbolizing the five pillars of Islam.
2. The Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque remained intact during the devastating Aceh Tsunami of 2004.
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Aceh / @halloo.aku
The province of Aceh was ravaged by the catastrophic 2004 tsunami, resulting in massive destruction and numerous casualties. Almost half of the Aceh region was razed to the ground, and many structures were reduced to rubble.
Despite being hit by a colossal 15-30 meter high wave, the Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque remained steadfast and survived the natural disaster that claimed many other buildings.
3. Similar to the Prophet's Mosque (al-Masjid an-Nabawī), the Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque features 12 large umbrellas.
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Aceh / @hadipramono82
The design of the Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque draws inspiration from the magnificence of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. The mosque's outer area is adorned with 12 massive umbrellas supported by 12 poles, which feature cutting-edge technology imported from Germany.
4. The Baiturrahman Great Mosque in Aceh is equipped with an underground parking system.
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Aceh / @ratnajanuarita1
Capable of accommodating hundreds of cars and motorcycles, the underground parking system at the Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque is just one of its many impressive features. This mosque also boasts a spacious prayer hall that can hold up to 30,000 worshippers at once.
5. With a history spanning over 300 years, the Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque stands as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.
Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Aceh / @aikpahlawankita
The construction of the Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque dates back to 1879, during the reign of Sultan Iskandar Muda. However, the mosque's construction was halted during the Dutch colonial era and resumed later, resulting in the majestic structure that stands today.
With its rich history and cultural significance, the Baiturrahman Aceh Mosque serves not only as a source of pride for the Acehnese people but also as a popular tourist destination for visitors from both local and foreign regions.
