Ganhe Mosque in Zhaotong City

Ganhe Mosque in Zhaotong City
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Short Brief of the Mosque

Chinese Name: 昭通甘河清真古寺

English Name: Ganhe Mosque, Zhaotong

Location: Ganhe Mosque(昭通甘河清真古寺) is located in Jihe Village, Shouwang Hui Autonomous Township, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province, China.

History and Background:

  • The mosque is traditionally believed to have been first built during the Ming Dynasty.
  • During the Southwest Hui Uprising in the Xianfeng period of the Qing Dynasty, the mosque was burned down by Qing troops.
  • It was rebuilt during the Tongzhi period (1862-1874).

Structure and Size:

  • The mosque occupies an area of about 4 mu (approximately 0.66 acres).
  • The total building area is approximately 2,335 square meters.
  • Due to its age, many buildings within the mosque complex are in disrepair and urgently need renovation.

Architectural Features:

  • The prayer hall is a ridged wooden structure with an area of 350 square meters.
  • The minaret, or Bangke Tower, is a three-story, six-sided pavilion with a spire roof and four protruding eaves, making it quite attractive.
  • Many of the mosque’s cultural relics have been destroyed, with only one incense burner remaining.

Community and Cooperation:

  • The mosque serves a community of over 750 Hui households, approximately 3,500 people.
  • There are 56 Akhunds (religious scholars who lead prayers), 20 academic leaders, and 10 Mullahs (Islamic clerics) associated with the mosque.

Historical Development

Initial Construction:

  • The mosque is traditionally believed to have been constructed during the Ming Dynasty.

Reconstruction:

  • It was destroyed by Qing troops during the Southwest Hui Uprising in the Xianfeng period.
  • Rebuilt during the Tongzhi period (1862-1874).

Architectural Features

  • Prayer Hall: The prayer hall is a ridged wooden structure with an area of 350 square meters.
  • Bangke Tower: The Bangke Tower is a three-story, six-sided pavilion with a spire roof and four protruding eaves.
  • Remaining Relics: Most cultural relics have been destroyed, with only one incense burner remaining.

Community and Cooperation

  • Community: The mosque serves over 750 Hui households, approximately 3,500 people.
  • Religious Leaders: There are 56 Akhunds, 20 academic leaders, and 10 Mullahs associated with the mosque.

Ganhe Mosque stands as a significant historical and cultural landmark for the Hui Muslim community in Yunnan Province, reflecting their resilience and dedication to their faith through the centuries.