SULTAN OMAR ALI SAIFUDDIEN MOSQUE
Bandar Seri
Begawan, Brunei
Major
Landmark and a Tourist Attraction
The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in
Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of the Sultanate of Brunei, is considered one
of the most beautiful mosques in Asia Pacific. Named after Omar Ali
Saifuddien III, the 28th Sultan of Brunei, is who also initiated its
construction. The mosque serves as a symbol of the Islamic faith in Brunei and
dominates the skyline of Bandar Seri Begawan. It is a major landmark and a
tourist attraction of Brunei.
The mosque unites Mughal architecture and
Italian styles. The plans were done by Booty and Edwards Chartered Architects
according to designs by the Italian architect Cavaliere Rudolfo Nolli, who had
already for decades been working at the gulf of Siam.The construction costs
were very modest between $7.7 and $9.2 million." The mosque's most
recognizable feature - the main dome, is covered in pure gold. The mosque
stands 52 m (171 ft) high and can be seen from virtually anywhere in
Bandar Seri Begawan. The main minaret is the tallest feature. It has an
elevator to the top, where a visitor can enjoy a panoramic view of the
city. The building was completed in 1958
and is an example of modern Islamic architecture.
