Al-Jazzar Mosque is a religious structure from the 18th century that provides an insight into Ottoman traditions and architectural styles. The enormous mosque is one of Israel’s largest outside of Jerusalem, making an indelible mark on the Acre skyline. Admire the tall minaret that rises from behind the large green dome capping the edifice.
Capture photos of the mosque, which displays a blend of Byzantine and Persian features. At its base stands a colonnade leading to the courtyard. Inspect the Arabic inscription carved above the main door, revealing the mosque’s date of construction, 1781.
Enter the building and admire the geometrical patterns and Arabic scripture adorning the walls. The ornate interior contains a red carpet, narrow pillars and lavish chandeliers. Examine the marble minbar (pulpit) and Baroque mihrab that faces Mecca. Note that the mosque contains a religious relic known as the Sha’r an-Nabi, purporting to be a lock of hair from the beard of the Prophet Muhammad.
Consider the intriguing history of this religious building, which was constructed on the site of a former church. It was once known as the Mosque of Lights.
The site takes its name from the 18th-century Acre ruler, Ahmad Pasha al-Jazzar, known as the Butcher for his brutality. See the spot beside the mosque where al-Jazzar was buried. The small mausoleum and graveyard also contain the remains of his relatives, including his successor and adopted son, Sulayman Pasha.
Expect the mosque to be open daily from morning until early evening, with occasional prayer breaks. Non-Muslims must pay a fee to enter and any woman is required to wear a shawl over her head.
Al-Jazzar Mosque stands in the northern part of the Old City district in southwestern Acre. Take a bus to a nearby stop and get around the area on foot. See some of the area’s highlights, such as the Hamam al-Basha Turkish Bath, Khan al-Umdan ancient inn and the Templars’ Tunnel.