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Al-Sahaba Mosque

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Landmark
—°1
Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)

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The Al-Sahaba Mosque is the preeminent religious and cultural landmark of Derna, a city in eastern Libya known for its unique green landscapes and historic architecture. The mosque is celebrated for its grand design, featuring a massive central dome and tall, slender minarets that define the city's skyline. Named after the Sahaba (Companions of the Prophet Muhammad), the mosque marks a site of deep historical significance, as Derna is traditionally associated with early Islamic figures. It serves as the main congregational mosque for the city's residents, hosting large Friday prayers and religious festivals. In September 2023, the mosque gained international attention when it remarkably survived the catastrophic flooding caused by Storm Daniel, while much of the surrounding city center was swept away. In the aftermath of the disaster, the Al-Sahaba Mosque became a rallying point for survivors and a symbol of Derna's enduring spirit. Its architecture blends traditional Islamic motifs with modern structural techniques, making it a masterpiece of contemporary Libyan religious building.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141415172023262625231916
Rain mm484020101240314313767

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Al-Sahaba Mosque in Derna is an important religious center and is usually not accessible to non-Muslims. The exterior and the surrounding cemetery can however be visited.
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Typical hours
The exterior of the mosque and the cemetery are accessible during the day. Respect quiet times and avoid visits during the five daily prayer times.
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Photography
Photography of the exterior is usually allowed, but avoid photographing worshippers without their consent. In the cemetery area, discreet photography is appropriate.
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Time needed
Visiting the exterior facilities and the cemetery takes about 20 to 30 minutes. For a contemplative viewing of the graves of the Prophet's companions, allow a little more time.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk along the coastal promenade of Derna. The old town of Derna with its traditional houses also gives itself for exploration.
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Getting there
The mosque is centrally located in Derna and is accessible on foot or by taxi. Parking options are limited in the surrounding alleys.
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Insider tip
Inform yourself before traveling about the current security situation in Derna, as the region can be politically unstable. Respect the religious feelings of locals through appropriate clothing and behavior.

Geography

Coordinates
32.76670, 22.63580

Facts

  • The mosque is named after the Companions of the Prophet Muhammad.
  • It features one of the largest domes in the Cyrenaica region.
  • Derna is home to a cemetery where early Islamic figures are buried.
  • The mosque survived the devastating 2023 floods that hit Derna.
  • It serves as the focal point for religious and social gatherings in the city.
  • The site includes a library and rooms for Islamic studies.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

DernaDerna<1 km · SExplore →
Lake NasserLake Nasser21 km · NEExplore →
MartubaMartuba23 km · SExplore →
Al QubbahAl Qubbah33 km · WExplore →
Ras al-HilalRas al-Hilal44 km · WExplore →
Umm al RizamUmm al Rizam48 km · SEExplore →
SusaSusa64 km · WExplore →
Cyrenaica CoastCyrenaica Coast67 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Al-Sahaba Mosque (1)

Emilea📍 landmark

A local landmark and attraction located in the vicinity of the Al-Sahaba Mosque in Derna.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Al-Sahaba Mosque?
It is a landmark of Derna with an impressive large dome.
Where in Derna is the mosque located?
It is located in the center of the city, near the market square.
When was it built?
The mosque was built in the 1970s in a modern style.
Is it still intact after the floods?
The building has survived severe storms and crises, but sustained some damage.
How many people fit in the mosque?
It is one of the largest mosques in the region, accommodating thousands of worshippers.
Al-Sahaba Mosque: where is it located?
Al-Sahaba Mosque is located in Libya.
Al-Sahaba Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Al-Sahaba Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Al-Sahaba Mosque is the preeminent religious and cultural landmark of Derna, a city in eastern Libya known for its unique green landscapes and historic architecture.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Derna — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Derna
A picturesque eastern city known for its green surroundings and water springs.
Al Qubbah — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Al Qubbah
The largest city between Derna and Al Bayda in Cyrenaica.
Martuba — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Martuba
Known for the former military airfield from World War II.
🗺️
Ras al-Hilal
A picturesque coastal village at the foot of Jebel Akhdar, famous for its green hills and waterfalls meeting the Mediterranean.
Umm al Rizam — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Umm al Rizam
A village in eastern Cyrenaica that traditionally relies on trade.
Susa — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Susa
A coastal town in the northeast, known historically as the ancient Apollonia.

Nature

Lake Nasser — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Lake Nasser
A massive reservoir in southern Egypt.

More places

Port of Derna — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Port of Derna
The Port of Derna serves as a regional trade hub for Libya's eastern coastal region.
Cyrenaica Coast — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Cyrenaica Coast
The coastal region of Cyrenaica.
Cyrene — Al-Sahaba Mosque (Libya)
Cyrene
A major ancient Greek and later Roman city that gave the region of Cyrenaica its name.