Baxian Grand Mosque in Zhaotong City

Basic Information

  • Chinese Name: 昭通市八仙清真大寺本寺
  • English Name: Baxian Grand Mosque
  • Alternate Name: Zhaoweilu Ancient Mosque (昭威鲁清真古寺)
  • Location: Baxianying, Shouwang Hui Ethnic Township, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, China

Introduction

Baxian Grand Mosque, also known as Zhaoweilu Ancient Mosque, is a historical mosque located in Baxianying, Shouwang Hui Ethnic Township, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. It was initially constructed in the 8th year of the Yongzheng Emperor’s reign in the Qing Dynasty (1730) and has undergone several renovations and repairs throughout its history.Baxian Grand Mosque in Zhaotong City

Historical Background

  • Foundation: Established in 1730 during the Qing Dynasty. It was rebuilt in the 44th year of the Qianlong Emperor’s reign (1779) and underwent major renovations in 1962. During the Cultural Revolution, the mosque suffered significant damage and several buildings were repurposed.
  • Cultural Heritage: In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, Baxian Grand Mosque was designated as a county-level cultural heritage site on March 7, 1983.

Architectural Features

  • Total Area: The current mosque complex covers an area of 1560 square meters, with the main prayer hall occupying 225 square meters.
  • Main Prayer Hall: The main prayer hall is built in a palace-style architecture with a double-eaved roof covered in blue glazed tiles, presenting a magnificent and ornate appearance. Adjacent to it is a three-story pavilion-style rear hall, complementing the grandeur of the main hall. Other structures within the complex include the calligraphy tower, bathhouse, auxiliary rooms, and entrance gates. The courtyard, gardens, and winding corridors add to the serene and solemn atmosphere of the mosque.
  • Cultural Influence: Baxian Grand Mosque has played a significant role in the religious and educational life of Zhaotong City. It served as a prominent educational institution under the leadership of influential figures such as Ma Minglun, fostering religious and academic pursuits among the local Hui Muslim community.Baxian Grand Mosque in Zhaotong City

Community and Educational Influence

  • Community: The mosque serves as the central religious and cultural hub for surrounding areas, with three imams and a significant number of students engaged in religious studies. The community consists of approximately 965 households and nearly 4000 individuals, all adhering to the Islamic teachings of the Ithna Ashariyyah school of thought (伊黑瓦尼).

Visitor Information

  • Visiting Recommendations: Visitors are encouraged to respect mosque etiquette and dress modestly when visiting Baxian Grand Mosque. Exploring the historical architecture and cultural artifacts within the mosque complex provides insight into the rich heritage of the Hui Muslim community in Zhaotong City.Baxian Grand Mosque in Zhaotong City

Conclusion

Baxian Grand Mosque, also known as Zhaoweilu Ancient Mosque, stands as a testament to the enduring cultural and religious traditions of the Hui Muslim community in Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. Its architectural splendor and historical significance make it a valuable cultural heritage site and a place of reverence for local residents and visitors alike.