Damascus – al-Maalaq Mosque دمشق – جامع المعلق

al-Maalaq Mosque (جامع المعلق) was constructed by al-Amir Barad Beik al-Jakmi (الأمير برد بيك الجكمي) in 1519. The name of the mosque translates to “the hanging mosque”, reflecting its location overlooking the Barada River (نهر بردى) just beyond the old city walls of Damascus (دمشق). While many Mamluk-era mosques were built upon older places of worship, this mosque was newly constructed during the period. The mosque has been reconstructed on several occasions. The minaret was destroyed when struck by lightning in 1648, and was rebuilt by Mohammed Basha al-Azem (محمد باشا العظم). In 1759 it was severely damaged by an earthquake and restored under Ottoman Sultan Abd al-Hamid I (عبد الحميد الأول).

The northern façade of the mosque is richly decorated with alternating horizontal bands of black and white stone and several stone mosaics of geometric patterns. The octagonal minaret, also on the northern side of the mosque, sits upon a square base and features elaborate decoration as well. Beyond the northern facade is a nice courtyard with central fountain. The prayer hall, to the south, is largely modernized and does not retain many historic features. The mosque is open during regular prayer times.

 

Getting There: al-Maalaq Mosque (جامع المعلق) is located less than one hundred meters to the northeast of Bab al-Faraj (باب الفرج), the northwestern most gate of the old city of Damascus (دمشق). From the northeast corner of Damascus Citadel (قلعة دمشق), head northeast to Bab al-Faraj (باب الفرج) and pass through the gate heading north. Turn right once you reach the street, and the mosque will be on the right side after approximately fifty meters.

Coordinates: 33°30’49.00″N / 36°18’17.00″E

Transliteration Variants: al-Maalak Mosque, al-Malaq Mosque, al-Malak Mosque, al-Mualaq Mosque, al-Mualak Mosque, al-Moalaq Mosque, al-Moalak Mosque, al-Muaalaq Mosque, al-Muaalak Mosque, al-Moaalaq Mosque, al-Moaalak Mosque

Rating: 3 / 10