Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque
This historic mosque - an ancient site - is the first most important holy site for Moslems in Cyprus and Europe; in the top five worldwide, and also one of the oldest working mosques in Europe.
It is located 3km west of Larnaka on the road to Kiti, overlooking Larnaka Salt Lake.
The Holy Helper (companion) and aunt of Prophet Mohamed, Umm Haram, who was referred to as Hala Sultan ('royal aunt') by the Prophet, took part in the first sea campaign of the Islamic world, which took her to Cyprus.
After the Arab armies successfully landed in Larnaka in 648AD she fell from her mount and died a martyr. Grand Khalif Moavia, who was taking part in the expedition, immediately ordered the construction of a mosque on the spot, where she lies buried.
The mosque was first renovated in 1816, and in 2002 by UNOPS, when archaeological excavations also revealed that the site has been inhabited since Neolithic times.
Further information:
Deputy Ministry of Tourism Audio Guide
Moslems who attend Friday prayers are welcome to join the lunch that follows after. Please contact the Hala Sultan Trust beforehand for better organisation.
Important note: As this is a working mosque, please show the appropriate respect and ensure that you are suitably dressed (shoulders and knees covered). Please also keep noise to a minimum.
Summer: 8.30am - 7.30pm. Winter: 8.30am - 5pm
Friday Prayers: Fridays at 1.30pm (closed to visitors during prayers).
Free admission. Donations welcome.
Wheelchair accessible (request from guard at entrance)
Tours are available for groups with prior arrangement. Please contact the Trust on: [email protected] / +357 9937 2920 (WhatsApp messages).
