VietNamNet Bridge – Mubarak is one of the oldest mosques of the Muslim community of Cham people in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang, and it lures many tourists to explore the culture and religion as well as architecture.

A view of Mubarak Mosque in An Giang Province.

Located in Tan Chau Township, Mubarak Mosque is near Chau Doc City and can be reached by the river. After some minutes on Chau Giang ferry, tourists will see the onion-shaped peak in the distance and crescent moon patterns in – a typical feature of Muslim architecture.

If taking a boat cruise along the river, tourists can sense deeply the peace and fresh feeling of the sanctuary in the morning, at noon or sunset.

Ho Xa Ich, one of the leaders in the mosque, said that the mosque was built in 1750 with bamboo pillars and cottage-style roof. In 1808, the mosque was renovated with wooden pillars, brick walls, rock ground and tiled roof. He said the mosque is the spiritual symbol of the community.

Rapana drums are kept in Mubarak Mosque.

The mosque is also highlighted by a collection of ten Rapana drums which are rumored to be 500 years old. Drums are played in traditional ceremonies as well as festivals in the community. Locals say currently there are about seven people who can play the drums but they are trying to find a protégé to keep the tradition alive.

Source: SGT