Abu Darwish Mosque

Can this mosque be younger than my grandfather? You might be surprised to learn that the Abu Darwish Mosque, despite its traditional look, was built in 1961. This makes it a mere youngster compared to some of the ancient marvels we’ve seen on our journey. The mosque’s story begins with a man named Abu Darwish, or Mustafa Hassan. A man of vision and generosity, he envisioned a place of worship atop this hill, Jebel al-Ashrafiyeh. Abu Darwish not only funded the mosque’s construction, but he also designed it, drawing inspiration from the Syrian architectural style he admired. His influence is visible in the mosque’s signature black and white stonework, a striking contrast against the Amman skyline. This unique aesthetic was achieved using materials brought all the way from Syria, a testament to Abu Darwish’s dedication. Before the mosque’s construction, this area was sparsely populated, marked only by a lone hospital. Abu Darwish, a keen observer, noticed the plight of women who traveled long distances to care for ill relatives, finding no place to rest. He decided to build two lounging rooms on his land, a gesture of compassion that foreshadowed the mosque’s future role as a beacon of community. While the mosque’s exterior is bold and striking, its interior embraces a beautiful simplicity. Inside, you’ll find a small library, a testament to the enduring power of knowledge. There is also a small museum, though access for visitors is not always guaranteed. The Abu Darwish Mosque stands as a symbol of faith, vision, and community spirit. Its story, though relatively recent, resonates with the same dedication and artistry found in Amman’s ancient treasures.