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Kashgar Attractions | Id Kah Mosque
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The big yellow-tiled Id Kah Mosque (Aitigaer Qingzhensi) is one of the largest in China and is the religious center of Kashgar,capable of holding six thousand to seven thousand worshippers at a time. Shakesimirzha, a ruler of Kashgar, had the mosque built here first in 1442 and it was extended to its present shape through several renovation work. The mosque, constructed of yellow brick, is easily recognizable from its dominant spot on the west side of Id Kah Square.
Being the largest in china, it attracts more than 10,000 worshipers for prayers on a Friday afternoon. The call to Prayer booming from the mosque can be heard throughout the city center. As long as it is not prayer time or religious holidays, tourists are allowed into the mosque. When you visit mosques, you should always remember that both men and women should always have their arms and legs fully covered. The best time to visit is probably early to mid-morning when there are few worshippers here.
The gate is the most eye-catching one. On top of the gate stands a tower from where the imam will give a call (azan/adhan) summoning the muslims to attend to prayers. In the tree-graced courtyard, there is a pond and on its bank many pottery pots are placed, which are to be used by the worshipers to do wadhu or clean themselves. The framework of the main hall is made of timber with decorative wooden ceiling.
The exquisite wooden carvings and colored paintings reveal the essence of craftsmanship. The hall is supported by 140 carved wooden pillars. A stepped throne is enshrined into the central wall. During service, the First Mullah leads the prayer in the shrine. On Friday's or Corban, the first Mullah addresses the worshipers ( "Wa'az") standing on the steps of the throne. After entering the mosque the people will seat themselves facing the direction of the Kiblah in proper lines
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