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Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque

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Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque (Senegal)

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The Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque in Dakar is the largest mosque in West Africa and a monumental achievement of the Mouride brotherhood. Inaugurated in September 2019 in the Colobane district, the structure is a testament to the religious and economic influence of the Mouride community. The mosque features five towering minarets, with the tallest reaching a height of 78 meters, and a total capacity to accommodate over 30,000 worshippers across its prayer halls and esplanade. Its name, meaning 'The Paths to Paradise,' is derived from a poetic work by the brotherhood's founder, Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba. Remarkably, the construction project, estimated at around 30 million euros, was funded entirely through the voluntary donations of the faithful. The exterior is clad in Carrara marble, while the interior has intricate Moroccan-style craftsmanship, massive chandeliers, and hand-woven carpets. The mosque serves as a lively spiritual hub and a landmark of Islamic architecture, reflecting Dakar's status as a major cultural center in the Muslim world.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

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Avg °C222121212225272728282724
Rain mm119363147919117049913

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque in Dakar is one of the largest mosques in West Africa. Non-Muslims can usually enter the outer grounds, while the interior is often reserved for Muslims only.
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Typical hours
The mosque is usually open daily for prayers, with opening hours following prayer times. Visitors are typically welcome outside prayer times, but prior inquiry is recommended.
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Photography
Photography of the mosque from outside is usually allowed. Inside, photography is often not permitted; respect religious rules.
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Time needed
For a visit to the outer grounds, about 20-30 minutes is enough. If you want to explore the surroundings, you can stay longer.
Combine with
The mosque is located in the Médina district, which also houses Maison Ousmane Sow and other cultural sites. The nearby Hann Park provides a green oasis.
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Getting there
The mosque is reachable by taxi or bus (lines 4, 8, 12). From central Dakar, the journey takes about 20-30 minutes.
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Insider tip
Dress respectfully with covered shoulders and knees. Women should wear a headscarf when entering the grounds.

Geography

Coordinates
14.70750, -17.44800

Facts

  • The mosque was officially opened to the public in September 2019.
  • It is the largest mosque in West Africa, holding up to 30,000 people.
  • The tallest of its five minarets stands at 78 meters (256 feet).
  • The 30-million-euro project was entirely funded by private donations.
  • It features over 10,000 square meters of marble and decorative plaster.
  • The name 'Massalikoul Jinaan' is a tribute to Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba's writing.

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Sights in the town Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque (3)

Reptilarium de Hann🎡 recreation

The Reptilarium de Hann is a specialized reptile zoo facility located near sn-massalikoul-jinaan-mosque-landmarks-v2, housing various enclosed snake and lizard species.

FabLab DefkoAkNiep🎭 culture

FabLab DefkoAkNiep, established in 2014 near sn-massalikoul-jinaan-mosque-landmarks-v2, is a collaborative arts centre and indoor creative workshop space.

🕒 09:30-17:30

Zoo de Hann🎡 recreation

The Zoo de Hann is an enclosed zoological park in the sn-massalikoul-jinaan-mosque-landmarks-v2 area, maintaining habitats for varied wildlife within an urban woodland setting.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How large is the mosque?
It is one of the largest mosques in West Africa with an impressive capacity.
Can one see the interior?
Visitors can admire the architecture outside of prayer times.
Is there an entry fee?
No, visiting the exterior is free.
Where is it located?
It is located in the Bopp neighborhood of Dakar.
Is it worth visiting for the architecture?
Definitely, especially the elaborate decorations and domes.
Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque: where is it located?
Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque is located in Senegal.
Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque: what is there to see?
Highlights include Reptilarium de Hann, FabLab DefkoAkNiep, Zoo de Hann.
Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque in Dakar is the largest mosque in West Africa and a monumental achievement of the Mouride brotherhood.
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