Kebir Mosque (Great Mosque)

The Kebir Mosque, also called the Great Mosque, stands in the Old Town of Limassol, Cyprus, at the junction of Genethliou Mitella, Zig-Zag and Jami streets, about two minutes on foot from Limassol Castle. It is an Ottoman-era mosque, dating from the 19th century, and is the largest and most prominent mosque in the city. Its slender minaret rises above the surrounding rooftops and is a recognisable landmark in views from the castle roof and the harbour. The building has a prayer hall beneath a roof with a traditional pitched profile and a small courtyard, with architecture that reflects the Ottoman heritage of the island. The mosque has served the Muslim community of Limassol, and today it forms part of the city's multi-layered historic centre together with the neighbouring Orthodox cathedral and the medieval castle. Visitors usually spend 15 to 20 minutes looking at the exterior, the minaret and the surrounding lanes, and may enter when it is open to the public. Access has been reported as possible at reasonable hours outside prayer times, but restoration work may limit entry, so it is wise to confirm locally. Modest dress is required, with shoulders and knees covered, and shoes are removed before entering the prayer area; women may be asked to cover their hair. The quietest times are mid-morning and early afternoon, while Friday midday prayers are not suitable for sightseeing. The best photograph angle is from the lane facing the minaret, with the castle walls visible behind. The mosque is free to enter, and its position makes it simple to include in a short walking circuit of the Old Town, past the Old Port and Municipal Market.