Religious site
Great Mosque of Kano
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The Great Mosque of Kano stands in the heart of Kano and is described as Nigeria’s oldest mosque. Its history reaches back to the 15th century, when a mosque was built for Muhammad Rumfa.
Don't miss
- Its central position in the historic city of Kano.
- It is the oldest mosque in Nigeria, dating to the 15th century.
- The original structure was made of mud and of the soro, or tower, variety.
- The mosque was rebuilt in the mid-19th century by Abdullahi Dan Dabo.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Great Mosque of Kano
You can visit Great Mosque of Kano on your own. A guide is worth it for the history and detail that is easy to walk past, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.
Cheapest way in4-hours private Tour Islamic Mosque,Coptic Cairo &Khan el-Khalili4.7★ · 27 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$10 per personSee dates →
Best full dayDubai To Abu Dhabi: Grand Mosque, Royal Palace & Etihad Tower4.9★ · 10,182 travelers9-10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$89 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleFull Casablanca City Tour with Hassan II mosque Ticket Option4.9★ · 121 travelers4-6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$45 per personSee dates →Getting there
Know before you go
- The mosque's history includes a 1980 riot by Maitatsine followers that lasted 11 days.
A bit of history
Built in the 15th century for Muhammad Rumfa, it is the oldest mosque in Nigeria. Originally made of mud in a tower style, it was moved to a new site in 1582 by Muhammad Zaki and rebuilt in the mid-19th century by Abdullahi Dan Dabo. The mosque was destroyed in the 1950s and rebuilt with British sponsorship. In December 1980, a violent assault by followers of preacher Maitatsine during Friday prayers led to an 11-day conflict with an official death toll over 4,000.
Common questions
How old is the Great Mosque of Kano?
It was built in the 15th century, making it the oldest mosque in Nigeria.
What was the original construction material?
The original mosque was made of mud and was of the soro, or tower, variety.
Was the mosque ever destroyed?
Yes, it was destroyed in the 1950s and rebuilt with British sponsorship.
What significant event happened here in 1980?
In December 1980, followers of preacher Maitatsine attacked worshippers during Friday prayers, leading to an 11-day conflict with over 4,000 deaths.
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