Niujie Mosque

Niujie Mosque is the oldest mosque in Beijing. The original mosque building was built in 996 during the Liao Dynasty. In 1443 the mosque was reconstructed, and in 1696 it was significantly expanded. Its building is a traditional Chinese wooden structure. Nevertheless, the general plan of the mosque, fine patterns and Arabic calligraphy in the interior design retain the features of Islamic buildings. The mosque covers an area of about 10,000 square meters, of which 600 square meters is the main prayer hall, which accommodates more than 1,000 believers. The mosque is a spiritual center for Muslims living in Beijing.