Jakarta holds a secret within its bustling streets. It is a haven of peace called Masjid Al-Hakim. This mosque is a testament to faith. It is a place where the soul finds solace. Istiqlal Mosque is nearby. It is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. Istiqlal Mosque symbolizes Indonesia’s independence and unity.
Masjid Al-Hakim in Cairo, Egypt inspired the name. It is also known as Masjid al-Anwar. The name comes from Al-Hakim bin Amrullah. He was the sixth Fatimid caliph.
Construction began in 990 under Caliph al-Aziz. Al-Hakim Bi Amrillah completed it in 1012. He inherited the throne from his father. Al-Aziz started construction six years earlier. Al-Hakim was known to be cruel. Ironically, he was murdered in 1021. This was only nine years after the mosque was finished.
Wazir Fatimiyah Jawhar Al-Siqilli built it as a fence. He lived from approximately 928 to 992. It then became part of a fortress. The building has an irregular rectangular shape. Four roofs surround the courtyard. Its unusual entrance features a projecting stone portico. It is located in Cairo on the east side of Muizz Street. It stands just south of Bab Al-Futuh. That is the northern gate.
The most spectacular feature is its minarets. Originally, two brick towers stood at the corners. These are the oldest standing minarets in the city. They have undergone frequent renovations over time. Above the entrance gate, a stone slab bears an inscription. It faces the mosque’s interior. This plate is damaged due to neglect. Pieces were discovered during renovations.
A major earthquake struck Cairo in 1303. It partially destroyed the upper minarets. It also caused serious damage to other parts of Masjid Al-Hakim. Baybars, a Mamluk leader, repaired the mosque in 1304. Some original features were lost. Much of the original architecture remains.
The mosque was renovated again in 1980. Mohammed Burhanuddin beautified it. He added marble and gold decorations. Renovations restored original decorations. These included plaster carvings, wooden beams and Quranic inscriptions. The intention was to restore the ancient Masjid al-Hakim. It would again be a place of worship.
A mishkat, or lantern, with luxurious decorations was added. The lantern motif resembles those in Al-Azhar Mosque. Masjid al-Hakim now has a similar central motif. It looks like a large lamp.
Today, the mosque remains a place of worship. Its unique minaret attracts local and foreign tourists. Masjid al-Hakim is now a place for Egyptians to pray. They also enjoy its tranquility and peace. Masjid Al-Hakim reflects Cairo’s rich Islamic history. It also stands as a symbol of faith.