Zhengzhou Beida Mosque in Zhengzhou
Location and Accessibility
Address: No. 128, Qingzhen Temple Street, Guancheng District, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province, China.
How to Get There:
- By Bus: You can take several bus routes within Zhengzhou City, including Bus 33, B17, 2, 58, 40, and 65, which will get you to the vicinity of the mosque.
Historical Background
Origins: Zhengzhou Beida Mosque郑州北大清真寺, also known as Zhengzhou Mosque or Beida Temple, dates back to the late Yuan Dynasty and early Ming Dynasty. It is considered one of the most complete examples of traditional Chinese palace-style Islamic architecture.
Renovations:
- Early Repairs: The mosque underwent several reconstructions, including major renovations in the 18th century (1754 and 1782) and additional restorations in the 19th and 20th centuries.
- Modern Restoration: In 1953 and 1982, the Zhengzhou municipal government allocated funds for further renovation.
Architectural Features
Layout: The mosque covers nearly 17 acres and is arranged in a symmetrical, traditional Chinese palace style. It includes a main gate, a Moon Viewing Tower (Wangyue Tower), a main hall, lecture halls, a bathroom, and a funeral home.
Main Gate:
- The gate features a width of three bays and a depth of two bays, standing about 10 meters high. It has a single-eaved, hip-and-gable roof with a total area of 96 square meters. The roof is covered with gray tiles, and the ridge is adorned with lotus motifs.
Wangyue Tower:
- Also known as the Moon Viewing Tower, this structure is used for moon observation and fasting. It stands 10 meters tall, with a square plan and a two-story, double-eaved gabled design. The tower is decorated with yellow and green glazed tiles and features intricate floral carvings.
Main Hall:
- The main hall, or prayer hall, is the central building of the mosque, measuring approximately 423 square meters and able to accommodate over 500 worshippers. It features a four-compartment layout with a glazed tile and gray tile roof, and intricate floral carvings on the ridge.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Historical Role: Zhengzhou Beida Mosque played a crucial role in the spread of Islam in Zhengzhou. It has been a center for religious education and community activities since its establishment.
Cultural Exchanges: The mosque has hosted numerous scholars and dignitaries over the years, including the Iranian ambassador to China in 1989.
Function: It serves as a place for Muslim rituals, prayers, and religious education. The mosque also acts as a venue for significant religious events and ceremonies.
Preservation and Honors
Protection: On March 5, 2013, Zhengzhou Beida Mosque was designated as a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.
Recent Honors: On December 29, 2022, the mosque was recognized as an Advanced Collective in the national religious community by the United Front Work Department.
Best Time to Visit
Optimal Visiting Period:
- Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit Zhengzhou Beida Mosque due to mild weather and pleasant temperatures.
Travel Tips
- Dress Code: Ensure to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the mosque.
- Prayer Times: Be mindful of prayer times, as the mosque will be busier during these periods.
- Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the mosque’s history and architecture.
