Located in downtown Beirut, Lebanon, the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque—also widely referred to as the Blue Mosque—is a striking Sunni place of worship designed by architect Azmi Fakhoury in an Ottoman Turk architectural style. You will find it standing directly adjacent to the Maronite Cathedral of Saint George, occupying a historic site where a 19th-century zawiya named after Sheikh Abu Nasr al-Yafi once stood alongside Souk Abu Nasr.
As you explore the grounds, you will see a impressive landmark with a main dome spire reaching 48 meters high and minarets towering up to 72 meters. Outside, you can observe five distinctive domes crafted from light blue tiles, while inside, the grand space accommodates up to 6,400 worshippers and features intricate interior details, patterned ceilings, a dome circle, and an ornate chandelier hanging in front of the mihrab.
The mosque carries deep historic significance for visitors; its foundation was laid in 2002 following a donation by late Prime Minister Rafic Hariri, who is buried next to the mosque in Martyrs' Square after his 2005 assassination. Additionally, archaeologists uncovered a paved section of a main Roman street with columns during its construction.
What to see at Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque
- Ottoman Turk-style architecture featuring five light blue tiled domes
- Tall minarets reaching 72 meters high alongside a 48-meter main dome spire
- Rich interior featuring patterned ceilings, a dome circle, and an ornate chandelier
- Burial site of late Prime Minister Rafic Hariri in adjacent Martyrs' Square
- Uncovered historical section of an ancient Roman main street with columns
Visiting tips
Take time to observe the impressive exterior height and blue domes before entering to appreciate the interior patterned ceilings and decorative chandelier.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque is easy to reach on Beirut’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Sursock Museum and law school of Berytus. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Beirut travel guide.
See the full Beirut travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.