The Xi'an Grand Mosque is located near the Drum Tower on Huajuexiang Street of Xi'an. The total area of the mosque is 130,000 square metres.
One of the oldest and largest Muslim mosques in China was founded in 742. At that time, it served as a religious centre for Arab traders based in China. According to historical records, most of the mosque was built during the Ming Dynasty, with further expansion of the area occupied during the Qing Dynasty.
Unlike most mosques in Middle Eastern countries, the architectural style of the mosque is traditionally Chinese, excluding some inscriptions in Arabic and artwork, as evidenced by the mosque's lack of minarets and domes in the traditional Islamic style.
Five inner courtyards separated by high walls lead to the mosque's main prayer hall. Non-Muslims are forbidden to enter there, as well as other halls during prayers. The main prayer hall covers 1,279 square metres and has a capacity of one thousand people. Each courtyard has a gate or pavilion.
In the first courtyard, one can see a nine-metre wooden arch that was built in the early 17th century. The tallest tower in the complex, called the "Tower of Meeting Your Heart", is located in the "Place for Reflection", the third courtyard. In the fourth courtyard is the Phoenix Pavilion just before the entrance to the main prayer hall.
The Great Xi'an Mosque remains quite a popular attraction today, and is still the main venue for Muslim religious activities within China.
