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Sidi El Haloui Mosque: A Marinid Masterpiece in Tlemcen

Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Sidi El Haloui Mosque, a Marinid-era architectural gem in the heart of Tlemcen, Algeria.

The Sidi El Haloui Mosque in Tlemcen, Algeria, is a historic mosque and religious complex dating back to the 14th century. Built by Marinid Sultan Abu Inan, it honors Abu Abdallah al-Shudhi, also known as Sidi el-Haloui, a judge from Seville. The mosque's architecture reflects Marinid design, featuring a minaret, courtyard, and prayer hall adorned with onyx columns.

A brief summary to Sidi El Haloui Mosque

  • VMQR+6R9, Tlemcen, Tlemcen, DZ

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the mosque to respect local customs and religious practices.
  • Visit during non-prayer times to fully appreciate the mosque's architecture and serene atmosphere.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other historical sites in Tlemcen, such as the Grand Mosque and El Mechouar Palace.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Sidi El Haloui Mosque is located in Tlemcen. From the city center, the mosque is easily accessible by foot. Navigate through the old medina, following signs towards the mosque. The walk offers a chance to experience the local atmosphere and architecture.

  • Public Transport

    Tlemcen has a public transportation system consisting of buses and taxis. From various points in the city, take a local bus or taxi towards the city center. From there, follow walking directions to the mosque. Bus fares are typically inexpensive, around 20-50 DZD. Taxis are also readily available, with fares depending on the distance traveled.

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Discover more about Sidi El Haloui Mosque

The Sidi El Haloui Mosque stands as a testament to Tlemcen's rich Islamic heritage. Constructed in 1353-1354 by Marinid Sultan Abu Inan, the mosque is dedicated to Sidi el-Haloui, a qadi (judge) from Seville who arrived in Tlemcen in the late 13th century. Sidi el-Haloui faced accusations of sorcery and was executed, but his reputation was later restored, leading to the construction of this religious complex near his mausoleum. The mosque's architecture is inspired by the Sidi Boumediene Mosque and showcases classic Marinid design. The complex originally included a mosque, the tomb of Sidi el Haloui, an ablutions facility, a madrasa, and a zawiya. While the madrasa and zawiya no longer exist, the mosque, tomb, and ablutions hall remain. The ablutions hall features a central dome. The mosque features a square courtyard (sahn) with a central fountain, surrounded by an arcaded gallery (riwaq). The prayer hall, a hypostyle hall divided into five naves by pointed horseshoe arches, lies on the south side. Unlike the Sidi Boumediene Mosque, the arches are supported by onyx columns, likely taken from the Palace of Victory at al-Mansourah. The mihrab, a hexagonal niche covered by a muqarnas cupola, is located in the middle of the southeast wall. The minaret, standing 25 meters high at the northwest corner, is decorated with interlacing sebka motifs.

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