Old Military Harbor Zone | Enewetak Atoll

Information

Landmark: Old Military Harbor Zone
City: Enewetak Atoll
Country: Marshall Islands
Continent: Australia

Old Military Harbor Zone, Enewetak Atoll, Marshall Islands, Australia

The Star Mosque, also known as Tara Masjid, is an early 20th-century mosque located in the Armanitola area of Old Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Visual Characteristics

The mosque features a square base with five domes, the central one being larger. Its exterior walls are adorned with blue and white mosaics depicting floral motifs and Arabic calligraphy. The minarets, located at the four corners of the roof, are topped with small domes. The main prayer hall can accommodate approximately 1500 worshippers.

Location & Access Logistics

The Star Mosque is situated on Abul Khairat Road in Armanitola, approximately 2 kilometers south of the Dhaka University area. Access is via local roads; private vehicles can reach the vicinity, with limited street parking available. Public transport options include local buses that service the Armanitola area, with a short walk required from the nearest stops.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The mosque was originally built in the first half of the 18th century, with significant renovations and expansions occurring in the 1920s under the patronage of Mirza Golam Ahmed. The architectural style reflects a blend of Mughal and traditional Bengali Islamic influences, with later additions incorporating Art Deco elements.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the intricate mosaic work and architectural details. The main prayer hall is accessible for prayer outside of scheduled times. Photography of the exterior is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the mosque complex. Limited shade is provided by the building's structure. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the area. Food vendors are present on Abul Khairat Road.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, the late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions on the exterior mosaics. The best months for visiting are generally from October to March, avoiding the monsoon season. The mosque is open daily, with specific prayer times observed.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the presence of 60 small stars on the main dome, which inspired its name. Local lore suggests the original construction was funded by a wealthy merchant.