In many books and blogs you read that it is forbidden for non-Muslims to visit a mosque. Non-Muslims can see a mosque only from the outside and are not allowed to even take photographs. Apparently non-Muslims are not allowed to enter a mosque because they are impure. That's bullshit. Of course you can enter a mosque and of course you can take photographs if you ask politely. If you want to visit a mosque during prayer time, it's better to ask beforehand and if allowed, sit at the back in a corner from where you don't disturb the believers. Take off your shoes before you get in and leave them outside. It is said that you are not allowed to touch the Qur'an as a non-Muslim. You should first ask whether you can or not. In many mosques it is available in English language. But before you even touch the holy book, you should wash yourself thoroughly. They are washing facilities and toilets next to the mosque. If you don't happen to have a Muslim brother to help you through this procedure and explain to you everything, simply do whatever the others do and ask if you have any queries.
Mosques are not only for men, women go there too. But they have a different entrance and are in a different room. Under the same roof there's everything twice. One for men, one for women. The women don't see the Imam, but hear his voice.
There are five prayer times during the day and they each last for about 15 minutes. It is prayed towards Mecca. If you cannot go to a mosque during prayer time, because you are too far away from one, or are working or travelling, you can pray later on, no matter where you are, but always facing Mecca.
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The biggest mosque of the city, taken from the roof garden of a cafeteria.
The same mosque during day, from a different angle.
The same mosque from the inside.
Another mosque.
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