Crystal Mosque (Masjid Kristal) of Terengganu, Malaysia
With Islam serving as Malaysia’s most wide-spread religion, it is not surprising that the country is dotted with mosques – of many different sizes and designs. However, one of them stands out from the rest because of its grand structure and beautiful look – Masjid Kristal or Crystal Mosque.
The Crystal Mosque is situated in the coastal city of Kuala Terengganu in the Terengganu state. What’s the most fascinating thing about this mosque? It is made of steel and glass, emulating a crystal-like veneer that creates beautiful impressions during different times of a day.
Located in the Taman Tamadun Islam or Islamic Heritage Park on a man-made island called Wan Man, the Crystal Mosque was built for two years – from 2006 to 2008. Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin of Terengganu, who was the thirteenth Yang di-Pertuan Agong, did the official inauguration on 8 February 2008. More than 1,500 worshippers can pray in this mosque at a time. Standing on the right bank of the Terengganu River, it is a major attraction in the entire Malaysia, let alone Terengganu.
The mosque has a crystal-like appearance because of the use of steel and glass in its structure. Its looks more stunning because of a design that blends in Moorish and Gothic elements into a contemporary style. The main prayer hall accommodates a crystal chandelier that makes the center point of the room. Beautifully etched calligraphy enhances the look of the frosted glass-windows and doors. The soft carpet feels warm and comfy under the feet of the worshippers and visitors.
The mosque blossoms with its full beauty at night when its domes and minarets change their colors to blue, yellow, green, and pink as the result of a mesmerizing display of light from inside. It looks grey at daytime but some portions of the dome and minarets reflect a golden tinge because of the reflection of sunlight. Its beautiful look, exquisite view at night, and being the only mosque made entirely of glass and steel, it is considered as one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.
The mosque offers robes to the worshippers. It also has guided tours for those willing take a tour inside the structure. People who like to collect keepsakes and mementos can pay a visit to the mosque’s souvenir shop. In addition, it comes with a built-in IT infrastructure and Wi-Fi connection, allowing the visitors to have Internet access inside the building.
The Islamic Heritage Park is another great attraction in the Terengganu state. It features the replicas of best Islamic structures from around the world including India’s Taj Mahal, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque in Brunei Darussalam, Israel’s Dome of the Rock, and China’s Xi’an Minaret. It also has River Cruise, Water Garden, indoor and outdoor Food Court, Convention Center, and Crystal Villa (guesthouse) for tourists, becoming the first theme park that blends in the concepts of religion and tourism.
You can roam around on foot or by buggy and can finally leave the place with a feeling of making a small world tour!
