Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque) | Colombo

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque): An Iconic Landmark in Colombo

The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is one of the most famous and visually striking mosques in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Located in the heart of the city's bustling Pettah district, the mosque is a prominent landmark with both historical and architectural significance. Its distinctive design, combined with its cultural importance, makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring Colombo.

Overview

• Location: The mosque is situated in the Pettah area of Colombo, which is known for its busy streets, markets, and vibrant atmosphere. The mosque is easily accessible, located on the Second Cross Street.
• History: Built in 1909, the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque was constructed to serve the Muslim community of Colombo, which had a long-standing presence in the city. The mosque is one of the oldest and most well-known Islamic landmarks in Colombo.
• Cultural Significance: The mosque holds cultural importance not only as a place of worship but also as a significant part of the city’s diverse cultural and religious heritage.

Key Features of Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

Architectural Design:

• The most distinctive feature of the Red Mosque is its striking red-and-white striped façade, which is what gives it the nickname "Red Mosque." The combination of Arabic and Moorish architectural styles is evident in the building’s design, which includes elements such as domes, arches, and minarets.
• The mosque’s colorful striped exterior is made of red brick, complemented by white mortar. This vibrant pattern stands out in the midst of the surrounding urban environment, making the mosque easily recognizable.
• The building is adorned with traditional Islamic geometric patterns, calligraphy, and intricate mosaic tiles, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.

Minarets and Domes:

• The mosque features two minarets, which rise above the surrounding buildings, offering a striking visual element to the mosque’s silhouette. The central dome of the mosque is a significant architectural feature, representing Islamic design elements that are commonly seen in mosques around the world.
• These minarets and domes are not only important for their aesthetic qualities but also function as part of the mosque's call to prayer.

Interior Design:

• The interior of the mosque is equally impressive, with an open prayer hall that can accommodate many worshippers. Inside, visitors can find intricate tilework, wooden paneling, and Islamic calligraphy.
• The prayer hall features a beautifully adorned mihrab (the niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca), as well as carved arches and other religious decorations.

Religious Role:

• The mosque continues to serve as an active place of worship for Colombo’s Muslim community. It is regularly visited by worshippers for daily prayers, as well as special congregational prayers during Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
• As one of the most prominent mosques in Colombo, it plays an important role in the social and spiritual life of the Muslim community in the city.

Location and Surrounding Area:

• The Pettah area, where the mosque is located, is a vibrant district known for its bustling markets, shops, and street vendors. The contrast between the mosque’s peaceful environment and the lively energy of the surrounding streets adds to the uniqueness of the location.
• The mosque is surrounded by other important landmarks, such as the Khan Clock Tower, which is also located in the Pettah area.

Visiting Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

Accessibility:

• The mosque is easily accessible from other parts of Colombo, particularly from the city center. It is located near major roads and transport hubs in Pettah, such as the Pettah Railway Station and Colombo Fort.
• Public transport, including buses and tuk-tuks, is readily available, and taxis can also be used to reach the mosque.

Visiting Hours:

• The mosque is open to the public throughout the day for prayer, but it is best to visit during non-prayer times for tourists to explore the architecture and surroundings.
• Visitors should be mindful of prayer times, especially during Jumu'ah (Friday prayers), when the mosque can get crowded.

Dress Code:

• Visitors are expected to dress modestly when entering the mosque. Both men and women should wear long sleeves and long pants or skirts. Women may also be asked to cover their heads with a scarf when inside the mosque.

Photographic Opportunities:

• The mosque offers excellent opportunities for photography, particularly due to its striking red-and-white striped exterior and towering minarets. Visitors are welcome to take photos of the building’s exterior, but it is important to ask for permission before taking photos inside the mosque, especially during prayer times.

Nearby Attractions:

• Pettah Market: A vibrant and bustling market area full of shops selling everything from spices to clothing, electronics, and street food.
• Khan Clock Tower: Another historical landmark in Pettah, the Khan Clock Tower is a colonial-era clock tower located a short walk from the mosque.
• Colombo Fort: The Fort area is home to many colonial-era buildings, including the Dutch Hospital and the Old Parliament Building, both of which are worth visiting.
• Galle Face Green: A short distance away, this large urban park along the coast provides a relaxing space with views of the sea and city skyline.

Conclusion

The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, with its distinctive red-and-white striped facade and Moorish architecture, is one of Colombo's most recognizable landmarks. Its architectural beauty, cultural significance, and role as a spiritual center make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. While it is primarily a place of worship, the mosque also serves as an important piece of Colombo’s historical and cultural fabric, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich Islamic heritage.