Medina umbrellas
Like the Prophet's Mosque.
PL09Puryono — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Zanaven — CC BY-SA 4.0 · P. Hughes — CC BY 4.0
Semarang's grandest mosque and one of Indonesia's most beautiful, opened in 2006, blending Javanese, Arab and Roman architecture in a unique design. Its best-known feature is the giant umbrellas in its courtyard that open and close mechanically, like those of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, giving Muslim visitors a special sense of familiarity. It holds thousands of worshippers; its hall is decorated with Arabic calligraphy and great chandeliers, and classical arches in its courtyard are engraved with the ninety-nine names of God. Beside it the ninety-nine-metre Al-Husna tower has a lift up to a museum of Islam in Java, a revolving cafe and a gallery over the city and the sea. Entry to the mosque is free and the tower costs a token fee; the umbrellas usually open for Friday prayer and on special occasions. Non-Muslims visit outside prayer times in modest dress. Come on a Friday to see the umbrellas open, or in the late afternoon to ride up the tower before Maghrib. It is a little out of the centre, so take a taxi.
Like the Prophet's Mosque.
A museum and view.
Engraved on the arches.
Jalan Gajah Raya, east Semarang
Usually for Friday and Eid prayers and some occasions, and sometimes for visitors at set times. Ask at the mosque about the day of your visit.