Shah Jahan Mosque – Woking, United Kingdom
Known as Britain’s first mosque it was established by Gottlieb Leitner who was a true polyglot. Infatuated by languages, it was rumored that by the age of 17 he could speak 15 languages and dedicated his life to opening libraries and educational institutes. Shah Jahan Mosque was built in conjunction with the Oriental Institute that allowed visiting Indian dignitaries to stay and study in a culturally welcoming surrounding.
Significance: Established in 1889, it is the first purpose-built mosque in the UK, marking the beginning of Islam’s physical presence in Britain.
Key Features:
- Designed in Indo-Saracenic style with a central dome and minarets.
- Funded by Sultan Shah Jahan Begum of Bhopal and built by Dr. Gottlieb Leitner.
- Includes a prayer hall and a surrounding garden.
Note: The mosque has been a center for Islamic learning and interfaith dialogue for over a century.
Good to Know
Country
United Kingdom
Visa Requirements
Visa in not needed for EU. Everyone else needs a visa.
Languages spoken
English
Currency used
Area (km2)
