10 Things to Do at the Grand Mosque of Bangolo, Ivory Coast
The Grand Mosque of Bangolo is one of the most impressive and iconic religious sites in the Ivory Coast. Located in the city of Bangolo, it is the largest mosque in the country and a revered place of worship for Muslims. It has become a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of things to do in and around the mosque. Here are 10 of the best activities to enjoy at the Grand Mosque of Bangolo.
1. Explore the Mosque Grounds: The Grand Mosque of Bangolo is a stunningly beautiful building, with its tall minarets, intricate carvings, and ornate decoration. Take time to wander around the grounds and admire the architecture and the stunning views of the city from the terrace.
2. Attend a Prayer Service: The Grand Mosque of Bangolo is a place of worship, and attending a prayer service is a great way to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the mosque. Visitors are welcome to join in the services, although non-Muslims should dress modestly and respect the customs of the mosque.
3. Visit the Museum: The Grand Mosque of Bangolo houses a small museum, which contains a variety of artifacts related to the history of the mosque and the Islamic faith. There are also some interesting displays about the city of Bangolo and its culture.
4. Take a Guided Tour: To get the most out of your visit to the Grand Mosque of Bangolo, it’s a good idea to take a guided tour. The tours will give you an in-depth look at the architecture and history of the mosque, and you’ll also get to learn more about the Islamic faith.
5. Shop for Souvenirs: There are several souvenir shops located around the mosque, selling a variety of items related to the mosque and the Islamic faith. These include prayer rugs, books, clothing, jewelry, and more.
6. Enjoy a Meal at the Café: There is a café located inside the mosque, where you can enjoy a meal while admiring the beautiful architecture. The café serves traditional Ivory Coast cuisine, as well as some international dishes.
7. Attend a Lecture: The Grand Mosque of Bangolo regularly hosts lectures on the Islamic faith, which are open to the public. These lectures are a great way to learn more about the religion and the history of the mosque.
8. Admire the Artwork: The mosque is decorated with a variety of artwork, including calligraphy, paintings, and sculptures. Take some time to admire the artwork and appreciate the beauty of the mosque.
9. Take a Boat Ride: The Grand Mosque of Bangolo is located on the banks of the River Bandama, and taking a boat ride along the river is a great way to admire the mosque from a different perspective.
10. Visit the Surrounding Area: The Grand Mosque of Bangolo is located in a vibrant city, with plenty of other attractions to explore. Take some time to wander around the city and discover its hidden gems.
Visiting the Grand Mosque of Bangolo is an unforgettable experience, and there are plenty of things to do in and around the mosque. Whether you’re interested in exploring the architecture, attending a prayer service, or admiring the artwork, there’s something for everyone at the Grand Mosque of Bangolo.