Miancheng Mosque in Xiantao, Hubei

Overview

Miancheng Mosque(仙桃市沔城清真寺) also known as “Libaishi” (礼拜寺) or the “Eastern Mosque” (清真东寺), is a significant Islamic religious site located in the town of Miancheng, Xiantao, Hubei Province. The mosque’s name comes from the Arabic terms “Masjid” and “Jamaat,” meaning “place of prostration.” It is a place of worship for the local Hui Muslim community and a historical center for Islamic culture. The mosque preserves texts and inscriptions dating back to the Tang and Song Dynasties, making it a treasure trove of Hui Muslim cultural heritage and Islamic scholarship.

Historical Background

Initial Construction

The Miancheng region originally had two mosques. According to local legend, the Eastern Mosque was built during the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (late 14th century). The Ma Family Genealogy records that the third-generation ancestor, Ma Zhongsuo, moved from Xi’an to Miancheng in 1647 during the Shunzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty. He and his family settled near the Phoenix Terrace in Miancheng due to the existence of a mosque in the area, which motivated them to make the town their home.

Reconstruction and Restoration

Both mosques in Miancheng were destroyed by fire during the wartime destruction of 1941, which led to the loss of many precious Islamic texts, historical records, and inscriptions. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the Western Mosque was rebuilt in 1955 on its original site. Subsequent repairs and restorations have maintained the mosque’s role as a central place of worship and cultural heritage.

Structure and Layout

Miancheng Mosque covers a total area of approximately 4,500 square meters, with a total building area of 2,682 square meters. The Western Mosque, built during the Qing Jiaqing period, occupies an additional 2,500 square meters. The mosque’s grand design and meticulous layout reflect a blend of Islamic and traditional Chinese architectural elements.

Architectural Features

Main Entrance and Moon-Watching Tower

The mosque’s main gate faces east and has a distinctive eight-character shape. Above the entrance hangs a large plaque inscribed with “Ancient Mosque” (古清真寺), and a Moon-Watching Tower stands 10 meters tall above the gate. Stone lions flank the sides of the entrance, guarding the mosque with symbolic strength.

Prayer Hall

The Prayer Hall is a palace-style, double-eaved structure that can accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers at a time. Its walls are decorated with Arabic inscriptions from the Qur’an, adding a spiritual and artistic dimension to the space. The hall is connected to the south and north wings of the mosque through covered corridors, creating a balanced and harmonious design.

Courtyard and Other Structures

The mosque’s courtyard is surrounded by stone railings with intricate carvings. In the center of the courtyard, well-tended gardens filled with rare plants enhance the serene atmosphere. The main courtyard can host gatherings of up to 10,000 people, making it the central hub for the county’s Hui Muslim community.

Cultural Significance

Miancheng Mosque stands as a symbol of the Hui Muslim community’s enduring faith and cultural heritage. Its historical importance and scholarly resources make it an important site for both Islamic worship and cultural preservation. The mosque’s architecture and detailed craftsmanship, including the unique use of wood, stone, and brick carvings, highlight its artistic value.

Location and Accessibility

Miancheng Mosque is located outside the Renfeng Gate of Qili City, in Miancheng Hui Town, Xiantao, Hubei. The site is easily accessible for visitors interested in exploring Islamic culture and history in the region.