Dark clouds were gathering over the sea, and a storm was coming. The clouds were rising high in the sky above the old Dutch fort walls that had faced the Indian Ocean for many centuries. Nearby, the old lighthouse stood between tall palm trees. The palm leaves moved in the strong wind. The sea looked rough, dark, and powerful, and the sky looked the same. Between Leyn Baan Street and Rampart Street stood a white and peaceful place of worship for Muslims.
The Meeran Jumma Mosque fits beautifully with the old Dutch buildings of Galle Fort. The mosque matches the historic style of the fort. It does not have large domes or colourful mosaic decorations like some other mosques. The building is bright white, like sea foam, and has a simple but elegant look. When you look at the front of the mosque, it is difficult to tell where British architectural style ends and Islamic style begins. The building has classic British colonial features with small minarets on top and a curved Middle Eastern style design. The low wall around the mosque looks like the shape of sea waves with curved decorative patterns.
The mosque that stands today was built in 1904, but people have been praying at this place since the mid-18th century. The name “Meeran,” which is common among mosques along the southwestern coast, honours the patron saint of sailors from South India. Another saint connected to the mosque is Pallak Waliyulla, who was known for travelling long distances in a palanquin. Many Muslims in the fort believe that many great Islamic saints have visited this mosque. This belief is strong because the shrine near the ancient port is believed by some to be the Tarshish of Solomon.
When we walked into the mosque, we felt a deep sense of peace and calm. The old ceiling made from Burma teak wood was dark and shiny. From the ceiling hung a beautiful silver-grey chandelier. The small windows above the doors leading into the main prayer hall glowed in soft pink, yellow, and green colours. The floor was covered with mosaic tiles that are said to have come from Italy. The tile patterns had beautiful designs that gave the mosque a rich Persian style.
While we were looking around the mosque, a deep and powerful voice called out “Allahu-Hu-Akbar.” The worshippers quickly washed before prayer at the blue-tiled pond in front of the mosque. Then they gathered together inside for the evening prayers.
Soon it was time for us to leave. The storm had passed, and the sky promised a beautiful sunset over the old fort walls. The evening light around the mosque looked calm and peaceful. We then walked along a small stone street that led us out of Galle Fort and back into the busy world outside.
What is it?
Google Ranked #1, the Heartfelt Expedition is a unique tour that invites tourists to personally engage in charitable events from the perspective of a local donor. Participants will be involved in school initiatives, elderly adoption, and community assistance throughout Sri Lanka.
Discover authentic culture and make a difference by helping local communities.
