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Al Nejashi Mosque
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Al Nejashi Mosque in Negash, Tigray region, is considered one of the oldest mosques in Africa and a symbol of early contact between Islam and Ethiopia. It was established by the companions of the Prophet Muhammad who fled persecution in Mecca in the 7th century (615 AD) and received protection from the Christian King Armah. This first Hijra (migration) marks a milestone of religious tolerance, as the Christian ruler refused to extradite the Muslims despite pressure from Mecca. The current complex houses the tombs of 15 companions of the Prophet and is a significant pilgrimage site for Muslims worldwide. The architecture has been modernized over the centuries, with the most recent restoration supported by the Turkish government. During the 2020 Tigray conflict, the mosque suffered severe damage but has since been protected as a cultural heritage site of national importance. It stands for the millennia-old tradition of peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims in Ethiopia.
- Location: Ethiopia
- Top sights: Al Nejashi Mosque · Emmanuel Church
- Nearby: Wukro (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May, Jun.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 17 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 15 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 8 | 16 | 44 | 28 | 35 | 162 | 168 | 37 | 24 | 9 | 9 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Al-Nejashi Mosque is a significant religious landmark that is open to visitors. The interior can usually be viewed, respecting prayer times.
Typical hours
The mosque is generally open during the day, with breaks for the five daily prayers. A late morning visit is recommended to avoid prayer times.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the courtyard and prayer halls, but without flash. It is respectful to refrain from taking photos during prayers.
Time needed
A visit to the mosque and its surroundings typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Those with more time can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere longer.
Combine with
The mosque is located in the Tigray region, famous for its rock-hewn churches and historic monasteries. Combining it with a visit to the nearby church of Wukro is recommended.
Getting there
The mosque is accessible by car or taxi from Mekele, with the journey taking about two hours. Road conditions can be challenging, so a 4x4 vehicle is advantageous.
Insider tip
Ask the imam or a local guide about the mosque's history - you will often receive a personal and in-depth explanation. Bring cash for a small donation.
Geography
Facts
- The mosque dates back to the first Hijra in 615 AD.
- It is located in the village of Negash in the northern Tigray region.
- The complex contains the tombs of 15 companions of Muhammad.
- It is regarded as the oldest Muslim settlement in Africa.
- The Turkish agency TIKA funded a major renovation completed in 2018.
- The minaret was severely damaged by shelling during the 2020 Tigray war.
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Sights in the town Al Nejashi Mosque (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Al-Nejashi Mosque historically important?
It is considered the first mosque in Africa, founded by companions of the Prophet Muhammad.
Where is the mosque located?
It is located in the village of Negash in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia.
Can non-Muslims visit the mosque?
Visitors are usually welcome but should wear modest clothing and respect prayer times.
What is the 'First Hijra' event?
It was the flight of the first Muslims to Axum, where the Christian king offered them protection.
Was the mosque recently renovated?
Yes, it was extensively restored with international help to preserve its historical heritage.
Al Nejashi Mosque: where is it located?
Al Nejashi Mosque is located in Ethiopia.
Al Nejashi Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Al Nejashi Mosque, Emmanuel Church.
Al Nejashi Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May, Jun.
Al Nejashi Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
Al Nejashi Mosque in Negash, Tigray region, is considered one of the oldest mosques in Africa and a symbol of early contact between Islam and Ethiopia.
Explore with Plizio
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Nearby cities
Mekelle
The capital of the Tigray region and one of the most important economic centers in the north.
Adigrat
The largest city in the northern Tigray region near the border with Eritrea.
Shire
Also known as Inda Selassie, it is a strategically important city in the western Tigray region.
Aksum
The center of the ancient Aksumite Empire, a city of great historical and religious importance.
Alamata
A town in the southern Tigray region located in a fertile agricultural plain.
Wukro
A town in the Tigray region famous for its rock-hewn churches.
Maychew
Maychew is a historic town in the Tigray Region, surrounded by picturesque mountains and known for its pleasant highland climate.
History & landmarks
Hawzen
Hawzen is a historic town that serves as the perfect base for exploring the spectacular Gheralta rock-hewn churches.
Debre Damo
A spectacular 6th-century monastery situated on an isolated flat-topped mountain in Tigray.
Yeha
Yeha is Ethiopia's oldest standing settlement, renowned for its magnificent Great Temple dating back to the 7th century BC.
Dallol
An otherworldly landscape of colorful hot springs and salt formations in the Danakil Depression.
King Ezana's Stela
An ancient obelisk in Axum that has remained standing since its erection, showcasing intricate carvings.
Obelisk of Axum
A towering stele that stands as a remarkable testament to the engineering skills of the ancient Aksumite Empire.
Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion
The most important church in Ethiopia, believed to hold the legendary Ark of the Covenant.
Nature
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Mekelle Industrial Park
A major industrial complex in northern Ethiopia attracting foreign direct investment in manufacturing.
Mekelle Dry Port
The main logistics hub in the Tigray region, connecting northern industrial zones with international ports.
Debre Damo Monastery
A 6th-century monastery situated on an isolated, steep-sided flat-topped mountain.
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Great Temple of Yeha
The oldest surviving building in Ethiopia, a tower dating to around 700 BC.
Adwa Battlefield
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Tomb of King Kaleb
Two adjacent underground crypts in Axum attributed to the 6th-century King Kaleb and his son Gebre Meskel.