Shaanxi Grand Mosque in Urumqi

Shaanxi Grand Mosque in Urumqi

The Shaanxi Grand Mosque乌鲁木齐陕西大寺, located at No. 10 Yonghe Zhengxiang, Heping South Road, Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is a significant historical mosque. Originally built during the Qing Dynasty, it represents a fusion of Chinese classical architecture and Islamic culture.

Historical Overview

Establishment

The mosque’s original structure was built in 1883 (the 9th year of the Guangxu reign) in the Nanguan area of Dihua City (modern-day Urumqi).
With the increase in the Hui population from Shaanxi in the early 20th century, the mosque was reconstructed and expanded between 1906 and 1911, making it the largest mosque in Dihua City at the time.

Renovations

1956-1957: The mosque underwent repairs.
Cultural Revolution: The mosque was repurposed as a factory, leading to damage.
1984: The mosque was rebuilt and restored, including the complete renovation of the west hall.

Architectural Layout

General Design

The Shaanxi Grand Mosque follows a traditional Chinese enclosed courtyard layout, with its main axis running east to west. Originally, the entrance was on the east side, aligned with the main courtyard axis, but due to changes in the surrounding neighborhood, the entrance was moved to the south to connect with Yonghe Zhengxiang.

Dimensions

The mosque occupies an area of 5,500 square meters with a building area of 4,000 square meters.
The mosque measures 100 meters long (east to west) and 55.8 meters wide (north to south), with a length-to-width ratio of 2:1.

Main Prayer Hall

Structure

The main prayer hall is located at the westernmost end of the mosque’s axis and faces east. It covers an area of 750 square meters and can accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers.
The hall is surrounded by a colonnade, offering a shaded area for worshippers to gather, especially during the hot summer months.

Design Features

The front hall features a hip-and-gable roof with single eaves and green glazed tiles. The rear of the hall extends into an octagonal pavilion with double eaves, forming a unique moon-watching tower that harmonizes with the main hall.
The prayer hall is supported by 40 red columns, each 5.16 meters high with a diameter of 0.55 meters. The columns are intricately carved with flying dragon designs.

Artistic Features

Wood and Brick Carvings

The walls, doors, and windows are adorned with elaborate wood and brick carvings, featuring symbolic patterns such as flowers and fruits to symbolize wealth and abundance. Common Chinese motifs like plum blossoms, bamboo, orchids, and lotus add cultural richness.

Ceiling Design

The ceiling of the octagonal pavilion is designed with a three-tiered lotus column structure, reflecting a blend of elegance and traditional Chinese aesthetics.

Cultural Significance

Historical Contributions

The mosque has been a center for nurturing religious scholars, including Ma Liangjun, a patriotic elder who promoted national unity during the War of Resistance against Japan.
During the Korean War, the mosque played a central role in organizing support for the frontlines and fostering solidarity among religious communities.

Architectural Importance

The Shaanxi Grand Mosque is a prime example of the harmonious integration of Chinese classical architecture with Islamic design. Its grandeur, intricate detailing, and historical significance make it a valuable site for cultural preservation and architectural research.

Conservation Efforts

On March 5, 2013, the State Council of the People’s Republic of China listed the Shaanxi Grand Mosque as a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit, highlighting its importance in China’s religious and architectural history.