10 Things to Do in Touba Grand Mosque of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba Touba, Ivory Coast
The Touba Grand Mosque of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba Touba, Ivory Coast, is a stunning and awe-inspiring religious site that is a must-visit for anyone travelling to the region. The mosque is the largest in West Africa, and is a pilgrimage site for the Mouride Sufi order, which was founded by Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba in the late 19th century. Here are 10 things to do when you visit the Touba Grand Mosque.
1. Explore the Mosque Complex
The mosque complex is a sprawling site, with a large central prayer hall, several courtyards, and many other buildings that are part of the complex. The prayer hall is the main attraction, and is a stunning sight to behold. It is decorated with intricate geometric designs, and is made of intricate carved wood, marble, and tile work. The courtyards are also worth exploring, as they are filled with lush gardens and fountains.
2. Visit the Mausoleum of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba
The mausoleum of Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, the founder of the Mouride Sufi order, is located within the grounds of the Touba Grand Mosque. The mausoleum is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, and it is a popular destination for pilgrims and visitors alike. Inside, you can find a number of artifacts related to Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, including his tomb, a library, and a museum.
3. Attend Prayers at the Mosque
The Touba Grand Mosque is a popular destination for pilgrims, who come to the mosque to attend prayers and other religious ceremonies. The mosque is open to visitors, and you can join in the prayers and ceremonies if you wish. It is a great way to experience the Mouride Sufi order’s spiritual practices and customs.
4. Visit the Market
The Touba Grand Mosque is also home to a vibrant and bustling market. Here, you can find a variety of local goods, including spices, fabrics, jewelry, and more. The market is a great place to explore and bargain for souvenirs and gifts.
5. Take a Tour of the Mosque
The Touba Grand Mosque offers guided tours of the complex, which are a great way to learn more about the mosque and its history. The tour will take you through the prayer hall, the courtyards, and the mausoleum, and you will learn about the Mouride Sufi order and its founder, Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba.
6. Enjoy a Meal at the Mosque
The Touba Grand Mosque has a number of restaurants and cafes located within its complex, where you can enjoy a meal in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The restaurants serve a variety of local dishes, and you can also find a selection of international cuisine.
7. Attend a Lecture at the Mosque
The Touba Grand Mosque is home to a number of lectures and seminars, which are open to the public. These lectures are a great way to learn more about the Mouride Sufi order and its teachings, as well as the history of the mosque and its founder.
8. Visit the Library
The Touba Grand Mosque is also home to a large library, which contains a number of books and manuscripts related to the Mouride Sufi order and its teachings. The library is open to the public, and is a great place to learn more about the order and its founder.
9. Take a Walk in the Gardens
The Touba Grand Mosque is surrounded by beautiful gardens, which are a great place to take a peaceful walk. The gardens are filled with lush vegetation, and are a great place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
10. Enjoy the Sunset
The Touba Grand Mosque is a great place to watch the sunset, as the sun sets behind the mosque’s majestic minarets. This is a great way to end your day at the mosque, and you can enjoy the beautiful view of the surrounding area.