Great Mosque of Xi'an

The Great Mosque of Xi’an is one of the oldest and best-preserved mosques in China, originally established in the 8th century during the Tang dynasty. It is renowned for its unique blend of Islamic function and traditional Chinese architectural form.

The site comprises four successive courtyards with gardens, stone steles and timber pavilions leading to a prayer hall, all arranged in an inward-facing sequence rather than a single large dome. Decorative elements combine Chinese motifs such as carved wood and tiled roofs with Islamic inscriptions and religious furnishings.

Founded in 742 AD during the Tang dynasty to serve the Muslim community in Xi’an, the mosque underwent expansions and reconstructions during Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing periods. Its present layout and many buildings date from later imperial repairs while the site has remained an active place of worship.

Situated in Xi’an’s historic Muslim Quarter close to the Bell Tower and city center, the mosque is easily reached on foot from central Xi’an and sits within a dense urban neighborhood known for markets and food stalls.

• Neighbourhood location: Located in the historic Muslim Quarter near the Bell Tower, making it easy to combine with a street-food visit to the nearby markets.
• Architectural style: Unlike Middle Eastern mosques, the complex uses traditional Chinese courtyard and timber architecture, so photography of carved wood and gardens is a highlight for many visitors.

What to See #

• Courtyard Complex: A series of courtyards and pavilions laid out in traditional Chinese architectural style, forming four successive enclosed courtyards leading to the prayer hall.
• Prayer Hall and Precinct: The prayer hall and walled mosque precinct containing Chinese-style timber structures used for communal worship and decorated with calligraphy and mosque furnishings.