Great Mosque of Asmara

Standing in the center of Eritrea's capital, the Great Mosque of Asmara—also known as Al Kulafah Al Rashidan or Jāmiʿ al-Khulafāʾ ar-Rāshidīn—is one of the city's three prominent edifices alongside the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary and Enda Mariam Coptic Cathedral. Located within Asmara's UNESCO World Heritage modernist city center, this huge mosque complex was designed by Italian architect Guido Ferrazza and built in 1938 under Benito Mussolini to impress the local Muslim population. Its architectural design harmoniously blends Rationalist, classical, Neoclassical, and Islamic styles.

When you visit, you can admire the fluted Roman-style minaret that features two Italian rococo or late baroque balconies and is visible from all across Asmara. Look closely at the exterior fascia beneath the minaret to see a split neoclassical loggia, double columns crafted from Dekemhare travertine with Carrara marble capitals, and traditional Islamic domes and arches. The front sahn features striking black stone slabs arranged in a geometrical pattern.

While the interior houses a Carrara marble mihrab, access inside is reserved exclusively for Muslims; however, visitors of all faiths are welcome to enter through the main entrance.

What to see at Great Mosque of Asmara

• Marvel at the fluted Roman-style minaret featuring two Italian rococo balconies
• Observe the unique blend of Rationalist, Neoclassical, and Islamic architectural elements
• See the elegant Dekemhare travertine columns topped with fine Carrara marble capitals
• Inspect the front sahn courtyard paved with geometric black stone slabs

Visiting tips

Respect local religious practices by remembering that while visitors of all faiths may enter through the main entrance, the interior of the mosque is strictly reserved for Muslims.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Friday prayers or Ramadan

How to get there & what’s nearby

Great Mosque of Asmara is easy to reach on Asmara’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Asmara travel guide.