South Mosque in Shenyang
Historical Background
The South Mosque南清真寺, commonly known as “Nan Si” (南寺), is located near Xiaoxi Road in the Shenhe District of Shenyang. It was originally founded during the first year of the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty (1403) by local Hui Muslim residents. According to historical accounts, the mosque was already in existence before the Qing Shunzhi era. The mosque’s founder, Tie Shuaiwu, built it using his private funds after being granted the title of cavalry captain for his services. Over the centuries, it underwent various renovations during the Kangxi, Qianlong, and Jiaqing reigns of the Qing Dynasty.
Relocation and Renovation
In 1820, due to space constraints and the mosque’s proximity to government offices, the Muslim community initiated the relocation of the South Mosque to Miaodi Street, where it was rebuilt. The mosque has since survived over 600 years of history. In recent years, the mosque was included in the first batch of district-level cultural heritage protection sites, with efforts underway to protect and restore it. From 2004 to 2006, extensive renovations were completed with support from local government, the community, and donations from the public, ensuring the mosque’s historic beauty was preserved.
Structure and Layout
As the largest Islamic worship site in Shenyang, the South Mosque covers an area of 7,482 square meters, organized into four courtyards. Key structures include the main prayer hall, lecture hall, moon-watching tower, and facilities like a bathing house for ritual cleansing before prayers. The mosque’s grand layout and intricate design reflect traditional Islamic architectural styles.
Architectural Features
The relocated South Mosque is known for its grandeur, completeness, and exquisite decoration. The mosque’s complex includes 15 buildings occupying over 4,400 square meters. The main entrance leads to a stone arch bridge and a tall minaret, followed by a moon-watching platform and the prayer hall. The southern side of the mosque features a bathing house, an important facility for Muslims to perform ritual purification. Additional features include a pagoda gate, shadow walls, and uniquely designed courtyards.
Notable Structures
The Moon-Watching Tower, also called the “Yao Hall,” is a distinctive six-sided structure standing 30 meters tall. It features a crescent moon symbol at its peak and serves a religious function for observing the moon, which is significant in Islamic rituals.
The Main Prayer Hall is a spacious building with a total area of 662 square meters. The hall has a nine-bay-wide, nine-ridge structure. The main and rear halls are connected, creating a unified architectural style. The rear hall features an octagonal moon-watching tower, standing 17.6 meters tall, which is the mosque’s most iconic feature.
Cultural Significance
As a center for Islamic worship and culture in Shenyang, the South Mosque has deep historical, scientific, and artistic value. Its beautiful design, skilled craftsmanship, and detailed wood, brick, and stone carvings reflect the rich Islamic architectural tradition. The mosque serves as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of ancient Islamic builders and remains a symbol of the Hui Muslim community’s heritage in the region.
Location and Accessibility
The South Mosque is located near Xiaoxi Road in the Shenhe District of Shenyang. It is easily accessible by local transportation.
Evaluation
The South Mosque stands as an architectural masterpiece and cultural symbol, showcasing the high level of skill and creativity in ancient Islamic art and construction. Its historical significance and aesthetic appeal make it an invaluable cultural heritage site.
