Al Khomayne Mosque

Beneath the vast expanse of a sky-blue dome, a story unfolds. This is the story of the Al Khomayne Mosque, also known as Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, a prominent landmark in Beirut’s bustling heart. The Al Khomayne Mosque stands proudly beside the St. George Maronite Cathedral, facing Martyrs’ Square. Its journey began long before its inauguration in 2008. In the 19th century, a humble zawiya occupied this very spot. By 1933, the Sunni Waqf already owned a portion of the land. Over the years, prominent Sunni families rallied to fund a mosque, but their dream remained unrealized for decades. It wasn’t until 2001 that Mufti Qabbani acquired the necessary land, thanks to the support of then-Prime Minister Rafic al-Hariri. Hariri’s vision extended beyond land acquisition; he financed the entire construction of the Al Khomayne Mosque. Tragically, Hariri was assassinated in 2005, before witnessing the completion of his dream. His final resting place lies beside the mosque, a poignant reminder of his contribution to Beirut’s skyline. The Al Khomayne Mosque’s design draws inspiration from Istanbul’s iconic Blue Mosque. Its Ottoman architectural style is evident in the soaring interior spaces, the magnificent dome, and the four slender minarets reaching towards the sky. The mosque is clad in Beiruti yellow sandstone, mined in Riyadh and shipped to Beirut, harmonizing with the city center. The large central dome, however, is adorned with light blue tiles. The Al Khomayne Mosque stands as a testament to perseverance, vision, and a blend of architectural influences. It is a place where history and faith intertwine, creating a captivating narrative for all who visit.