Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca District (Cyprus): A Magnificent Mosque

Hala Sultan Tekke…

UNESCO states – This splendid site represents an Outstanding Universal Value as it combines in a unique manner ecological, environmental, religious, historic, archaeological, and cultural values.

… Hala Sultan Tekke is a mosque and takya on the west bank of Larnaca Salt Lake, in Larnaca, Cyprus. The monument of Hala Sultan Tekke is associated with the Arab raids of the 7th century AD through the oral tradition of Umm Haram.  It’s a very significant Islamic monument and is used to this day for religious purposes…

…and since it’s an operating place of worship, please show the appropriate respect and dress suitably (arms and knees covered at all times).

This Mosque is one of the most important Islamic pilgrimage sites in the world – and a popular destination in Larnaca – since it’s considered to be the fourth holiest place in Islam, following Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia, and The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

The Mosque is surrounded by the serene natural beauty of palm trees and peaceful gardens, which in turn provides a calming atmosphere for contemplation and reflection.

Visiting this tranquil place will leave you in no doubt of its rarity, since it combines religion, serene surroundings, and cultural heritage. So, consider including it in your holiday plans…you will most certainly love your time there!

Adjacent to the Mosque you will find the Salt Lake. Most famous for the flocks of thousands of vivid Greater Flamingos that frequent the lake during the winter season, Larnaka Salt Lake is actually a complex of four salt lakes, covering a surface area of 2.2 sq km.

The main lake with its winding nature trail and bird watching tower is known as 'Aliki'. This larger lake is then followed by lakes Orphani, Soros and Airport, stretching all the way to Pervolia, Meneou and Dromolaxia villages.

Another wonderful experience to add to the collection, created just for you to make your holiday unforgettable.

For more information or pictures of this unique Mosque click on the quick links below…

Quick links:

• About Hala Sultan Tekke (Larnaca, Cyprus)
• Pictures of Hala Sultan Tekke (Larnaca, Cyprus)

About Hala Sultan Tekke (Larnaca, Cyprus)

The Location

The monument of Hala Sultan Tekke is situated on the west bank of the Salt Lake, in the Larnaca district, near the Mackenzie (Makenzy) beach area. It’s also a very short drive from Larnaca International Airport (LCA).

Building of the Mosque

The Mosque was erected in different phases. It began in 1760 and it was completed in 1817.

Historical Significance

Hala Sultan Tekke is believed to be the burial site of Umm Haram.

Umm Haram, known as Hala Sultan according to Turkish tradition, was believed to be the sister of the Prophet Mohammed’s foster mother or a follower from Medina to Cyprus.

Umm Haram arrived on the island in either 647 or 649, during the Arab raids led by the Arab Governor of Syria (Moawiya), in an effort to expand the Muslim empire across the Mediterranean Sea.

Shortly after her arrival on the island, Umm Haram fell off her mule and died. She was buried in the same place she died and it was ordered to build a Mosque on the spot. So, the Mosque was built over the grave of Umm Haram (Hala Sultan).

The original shrine was built in the 7th century. The current Mosque and surrounding complex were constructed during the Ottoman rule in the 18th century.

In 2002 UNOPS renovated the Mosque. Archaeological excavations revealed that the site has been inhabited since Neolithic times. Some archaeologists believe that the tomb is a monumental monolithic tomb of the prehistoric period.

The Wonderful Architecture of the Monument

The Mosque is a wonderful example of Ottoman-style architecture. It has a domed roof, arched windows and a tall minaret.

The site includes a…

• Courtyard
• Minaret
• Garden
• Umm Haram’s tomb (which is housed in a small chamber within the Mosque)

A Place of Worship

Today Hala Sultan Tekke is the most important place of pilgrimage for Muslims on the island of Cyprus.

The Mosque is considered to be the fourth holiest place in Islam, following Mecca, Medina, and The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem...

…and in honour of it being such a sacred place, please enter with respect and the correct attire (arms and knees covered at all times).

The Best Time to Visit

During sunrise and sunset, you will experience the best breathtaking views of the Mosque and its surroundings in twilight!

Tips for the Visitors

If you decide to visit Hala Sultan Tekke, then combine your visit with a walk around the Salt Lake for the full monty experience! In order to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, try to visit early in the morning.

Bring a pair of binoculars with you during the winter months to spot the Greater Flamingos and other birds.

Overall, Hala Sultan Tekke is a magnificent Mosque that attracts visitors of all faiths! Include this wonderful Monument in your holiday experience and you won’t ever forget it! The stuff that dreams are made of, and memories that last a lifetime.

Pictures of Hala Sultan Tekke (Larnaca, Cyprus)

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…And that brings us to the end of our article on Hala Sultan Tekke (Larnaca, Cyprus). We hope you enjoy your stay with us, and we hope to see you back again soon for another exciting stay on the best kept secret in the Mediterranean, our beautiful island!

Don’t enjoy yourself too much, or you won’t want to leave..!! :-)

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