Located in the al-Jalloum district near the Al-Madina Souq within the Ancient City of Aleppo, the Great Mosque of Aleppo—also known as the Great Umayyad Mosque—stands as one of the city's largest and most historic sanctuaries. First established during the Umayyad Caliphate in the 8th century on a site that previously served as a Hellenistic agora and cathedral grounds, the structure largely reflects major renovations from the 11th through 14th centuries.
When you visit this World Heritage Site, you will encounter a vast marbled courtyard featuring a distinctive alternating black and white stone floor, two roofed ablution fountains, an open prayer estrade, and a sundial. Inside the main prayer hall, you can see 18 quadrangular columns beneath cross-vaulted ceilings, an elaborately carved mihrab, a 15th-century minbar, and a revered shrine said to hold the remains of Zechariah, father of John the Baptist.
You can also explore the adjoining maqsurah, decorated with Kashan tiles. Though heavily damaged during fighting in the Syrian Civil War—including the collapse of its famous 1090 minaret—ongoing reconstruction efforts continue as this remarkable, resilient landmark slowly works to restore its historic splendour.
What to see at Great Mosque of Aleppo
- Shrine purportedly containing the remains of Zechariah, father of John the Baptist
- Vast marbled courtyard featuring intricate black and white geometric stonework
- Main prayer hall supported by 18 quadrangular columns with cross-vaults
- Square domed maqsurah adorned with internal Kashan tiles
- Historic Umayyad-era foundation located in the Ancient City of Aleppo
Visiting tips
Check local access conditions before traveling, as the mosque has experienced severe war damage and remains subject to ongoing restoration work.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Great Mosque of Aleppo is easy to reach on Aleppo’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Aleppo travel guide.
See the full Aleppo travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.