Description
The mosque is significant within the Muslim community and is the principle public building in Islam. As a gift to the Muslim community of Southern California from Saudi Arabia, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Fahad Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Minister of State and Cabinet. Member, provided funding for the land, (1993) and King Fahad pledged funds for the construction of the building (1995). It will serve as both a religious and educational center for Muslims and non-Muslims, worldwide.
Inside the Mosque the Qiblah (direction of prayer) was built facing towards the Ka’ba (mosque) in the city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia. This is the direction that all Muslims face when they pray. Following Islamic tradition there is: marble facade, hand made tiles from Turkey, and a 72 foot high minaret topped with a gold leaf crescent. The Minaret is an architectural-symbol of Islam.
Covering 63,000 square feet it is comprised of a central prayer area, an auditorium, conference rooms, and modern amenities for wudu (a-self-purification process performed prior to prayers).