Location: Al Jamia, Amman
The Jordan University Mosque, located in Amman, Jordan, is a significant religious and architectural landmark situated on the campus of the University of Jordan. Built in 1982, it has become one of the most beloved sights in the capital, known for its elegant design, serene atmosphere, and role as a spiritual and cultural hub for students, faculty, and the broader community.
The Jordan University Mosque was constructed in 1982, during a period
of significant growth for the University of Jordan, which was
established in 1962 as the country’s first university. The mosque was
designed to serve the spiritual needs of the university’s large student
body and faculty, while also reflecting Jordan’s commitment to blending
modernity with Islamic heritage. Unlike older mosques in Amman, such as
the Grand Husseini Mosque (rebuilt in 1924) or the King Abdullah I
Mosque (completed in 1989), the Jordan University Mosque is a relatively
modern structure, yet it has quickly gained prominence due to its
architectural beauty and its central role in campus life.
The
mosque was built under the patronage of the Jordanian monarchy, which
has historically supported the construction and restoration of religious
sites across the country. Its location within the University of Jordan,
a leading academic institution, underscores its dual purpose as a place
of worship and a symbol of intellectual and spiritual harmony. While
specific details about its architect or the exact circumstances of its
commissioning are not widely documented in available sources, the
mosque’s design reflects contemporary Islamic architectural trends,
adapted to the local context of Amman.
The Jordan University Mosque is a striking example of modern Islamic
architecture, characterized by its use of local materials, minimalist
yet elegant design, and functional layout. Covering a total area of
approximately 20,000 square meters, the mosque complex includes multiple
buildings, with the main prayer hall as its centerpiece. Below are the
key architectural elements:
1. Exterior Design
Material and
Color: The mosque is constructed from cream-colored marble, a material
commonly used in Jordanian architecture for its aesthetic appeal and
durability. The light marble exterior gives the mosque a luminous
quality, especially under Amman’s bright sunlight.
Dome: The mosque
is crowned by an intricate dome, measuring 35 meters in diameter, which
dominates the skyline of the university campus. The dome’s design is
both functional (providing acoustic resonance for prayers) and symbolic,
representing the heavens in Islamic architectural tradition. Its
exterior is likely adorned with subtle geometric patterns or
calligraphy, though specific details are not fully described in
available sources.
Minaret: The mosque features a single minaret, a
tower used for the call to prayer (adhan). The minaret is covered in
black tiles, creating a striking contrast with the cream-colored marble
of the main structure. A spiral staircase inside the minaret leads to a
small balcony at the top, where the muezzin traditionally delivers the
call to prayer, though modern mosques often use loudspeakers. The
minaret’s black tiling is a distinctive feature, setting it apart from
other Amman mosques, such as the blue-domed King Abdullah I Mosque.
Complex Layout: Beyond the main prayer hall, the mosque complex includes
additional buildings, likely used for educational, administrative, or
community purposes. These may house classrooms, meeting rooms, or
facilities for religious instruction, reflecting the mosque’s
integration into the university’s academic environment.
2.
Interior Design
Prayer Hall: The main prayer hall is rectangular and
described as “fairly spacious,” capable of accommodating a significant
number of worshippers, though exact capacity figures are not provided in
available sources. The hall is designed to be functional, with a focus
on creating a serene environment conducive to prayer and reflection.
Natural Light: Large windows allow natural light to flood the prayer
hall, enhancing the sense of openness and tranquility. This design
choice aligns with modern Islamic architecture, which often emphasizes
light as a metaphor for divine presence.
Decorative Elements: The
interior walls are adorned with floral ornaments and Quranic
inscriptions, adhering to Islamic artistic traditions that prohibit the
depiction of humans or animals. The floral motifs likely feature
arabesque patterns, a hallmark of Islamic design, while the calligraphy
includes verses from the Quran, rendered in elegant Arabic script. These
decorations are crafted with precision, reflecting the skill of local
artisans.
Mihrab and Minbar: The prayer hall includes a mihrab, a
niche indicating the direction of Mecca (qibla), and a minbar, a pulpit
from which sermons are delivered. These features, though not described
in detail in available sources, are standard in mosque architecture and
are likely crafted from marble or wood, consistent with the mosque’s
overall aesthetic.
Carpet: The floor is covered with a red carpet, a
common feature in mosques, designed with patterns to guide worshippers
in aligning their prayer rows toward the qibla. The carpet’s color and
design contribute to the hall’s warm and inviting atmosphere.
3.
Additional Facilities
Museum: A small museum is located on the second
floor of the mosque complex, though specific details about its contents
are sparse. It may house artifacts related to Islamic history, Jordanian
heritage, or the history of the University of Jordan, similar to the
small museum in the King Abdullah I Mosque, which displays pottery and
royal memorabilia. The museum is likely accessible to visitors, adding
an educational dimension to the mosque experience.
Other Amenities:
The complex may include facilities such as ablution areas,
administrative offices, or spaces for community gatherings, though these
are not explicitly mentioned in available sources. Given its location on
a university campus, the mosque likely serves as a venue for student-led
religious and cultural events.
The Jordan University Mosque holds a unique place in Amman’s
religious and cultural landscape, reflecting both its spiritual role and
its integration into the academic community. Key aspects of its
significance include:
Spiritual Hub: As the primary mosque on the
University of Jordan campus, it serves thousands of students, faculty,
and staff, providing a space for the five daily prayers, Friday
congregational prayers, and special religious observances, such as
Ramadan and Eid. Its accessibility to the university community fosters a
sense of spiritual unity.
Symbol of Modernity and Tradition: The
mosque’s modern design, built in 1982, represents Jordan’s ability to
blend contemporary architectural trends with Islamic heritage. Its
cream-colored marble and intricate dome contrast with older
Ottoman-style mosques like the Grand Husseini Mosque, yet it maintains
traditional elements like Quranic calligraphy and a minaret.
Educational Role: Located within a leading academic institution, the
mosque bridges faith and knowledge, encouraging intellectual discussions
on Islam and its role in modern society. It may host lectures, religious
seminars, or interfaith dialogues, aligning with Jordan’s reputation for
religious tolerance, as codified in the Amman Message (2004), which
promotes Islam’s universal values.
Community Gathering Place: Beyond
its religious function, the mosque serves as a social and cultural hub
for the university community. It likely hosts events such as charity
drives, student gatherings, or celebrations of Islamic holidays,
fostering a sense of belonging among worshippers.
Architectural
Landmark: The mosque’s distinctive dome and black-tiled minaret make it
a recognizable feature of the University of Jordan’s campus,
contributing to Amman’s diverse skyline. Its status as a “beloved sight”
in the capital reflects its aesthetic and cultural appeal.
Compared
to other prominent Amman mosques, such as the King Abdullah I Mosque
(known for its blue dome and tourist accessibility) or the Grand
Husseini Mosque (a historic landmark in downtown Amman), the Jordan
University Mosque is more intimately tied to the academic community,
making it a unique symbol of Jordan’s youth and intellectual life.
Visiting the Jordan University Mosque offers a chance to experience a
modern Islamic place of worship within the vibrant setting of a
university campus. Here’s what visitors can expect:
Duration of
Visit: A visit to the mosque typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on
whether you explore the prayer hall, museum, or surrounding campus.
Those attending prayers or events may spend longer.
Accessibility:
The mosque is located on the University of Jordan campus, near Al Jama’a
Street, opposite the main campus gate. It is accessible by taxi,
rideshare apps, or public transport from central Amman, approximately
5–7 km from downtown.
Entry Requirements:
Dress Code: Visitors
must dress modestly, with men wearing long trousers and women covering
their heads, arms, and legs. Abayas (full-length dresses) and
headscarves may be provided for women, as is common at other Amman
mosques like the King Abdullah I Mosque.
Non-Muslim Visitors: While
the mosque primarily serves Muslim worshippers, non-Muslims are likely
permitted to visit outside of prayer times, especially given Jordan’s
culture of religious tolerance. However, visitors should confirm
accessibility in advance, as some mosques restrict non-Muslim entry
during prayers.
Shoes: Shoes must be removed before entering the
prayer hall, a standard practice in mosques.
Highlights:
Prayer Hall: The spacious hall, with its floral ornaments, Quranic
calligraphy, and natural light, offers a serene environment for
reflection. The red carpet and lack of pillars create an open,
uncluttered space.
Dome and Minaret: The 35-meter dome and
black-tiled minaret are visually striking, especially when viewed from
the campus grounds. The minaret’s balcony may not be accessible to
visitors, but its exterior is a focal point for photographs.
Museum:
The second-floor museum, if open, provides an educational component,
though its contents are not well-documented. Visitors interested in
Islamic or Jordanian history may find it intriguing.
Atmosphere: The
mosque is described as calm and welcoming, with a peaceful ambiance
enhanced by its natural light and minimalist design. Its location on a
university campus adds a youthful, dynamic energy, with students often
present for prayers or events.
Photography: Photography is generally
allowed in the exterior courtyard but may be restricted inside the
prayer hall, especially during prayers. Visitors should ask for
permission to avoid disrupting worshippers.
Nearby Attractions:
University of Jordan Campus: The campus itself is a hub of academic and
cultural activity, with libraries, cafes, and green spaces.
King
Abdullah I Mosque (3–4 km away): A blue-domed mosque open to
non-Muslims, known for its Islamic museum and royal memorabilia.
Royal Automobile Museum (5–6 km): A popular attraction showcasing the
Hashemite family’s vintage car collection.
Downtown Amman (Al-Balad)
(5–7 km): Home to the Roman Theatre, Grand Husseini Mosque, and vibrant
souks.
Limitations:
The mosque’s primary function as a place
of worship means that access may be restricted during prayer times (five
times daily, especially at noon and Friday prayers).
Information
about the museum and visitor policies is limited, suggesting that
on-site signage or guides may be minimal. Visitors may need to rely on
university staff or local guides for context.
Unlike the King
Abdullah I Mosque, which explicitly welcomes tourists, the Jordan
University Mosque may have a more academic and local focus, potentially
limiting its appeal to casual visitors.
Location: Jordan University Mosque, Al Jama’a Street, University of
Jordan campus, Amman, Jordan (opposite the main campus gate).
Opening
Hours: The mosque is open for the five daily prayers, with potential
visitor access outside these times. Typical visiting hours for
non-Muslims, if permitted, may align with other Amman mosques (e.g.,
Saturday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM and 12:30 PM–2:00 PM), but visitors
should confirm with the university or mosque administration.
Admission: Likely free, though donations may be appreciated. Non-Muslims
should inquire about entry policies, as access is not as explicitly
documented as for the King Abdullah I Mosque.
Getting There:
By Taxi/Rideshare: A taxi from downtown Amman (e.g., Roman Theatre)
costs approximately 2–4 JOD. Rideshare apps like Uber or Careem are
widely used.
By Public Transport: Buses or shared taxis serve the
University of Jordan from central Amman. The Raghdan Tourist Terminal is
a key hub for public transport.
By Car: Parking is available on the
university campus, though visitors should follow campus signage to avoid
restricted areas.
Tips for Visitors:
Contact the University of
Jordan’s administration or mosque office in advance to confirm visiting
hours and non-Muslim access.
Dress modestly and be prepared to remove
shoes before entering the prayer hall.
Visit in the morning for
cooler temperatures and fewer worshippers, enhancing the chance of a
guided tour or museum access.
Combine the visit with a tour of the
University of Jordan campus or nearby attractions like the King Abdullah
I Mosque or Royal Automobile Museum.
Respect worshippers by
maintaining silence and avoiding photography during prayers.
Contact:
For updated information, contact the University of Jordan via their
official website (www.ju.edu.jo) or local tourism offices. The Jordan
Tourism Board (www.visitjordan.com) may also provide guidance.
The Jordan University Mosque is a compelling example of modern
Islamic architecture, but its appeal may be limited compared to Amman’s
more tourist-oriented mosques, such as the King Abdullah I Mosque, which
offers a museum, guided tours, and explicit non-Muslim access. The lack
of detailed documentation about the mosque’s history, architect, or
visitor facilities suggests it is primarily designed for the university
community rather than as a major tourist attraction. The small museum,
while intriguing, is not well-described, and its accessibility to the
public is unclear, potentially reducing its draw for casual visitors.
Additionally, the mosque’s location on a university campus, while
vibrant, may feel less accessible to outsiders compared to downtown
landmarks like the Grand Husseini Mosque or Roman Theatre. Visitors
without a specific interest in Islamic architecture or university life
may find the mosque less engaging than other Amman sites. However, its
serene atmosphere, modern design, and role as a student hub make it a
worthwhile stop for those exploring Jordan’s blend of faith and
academia.