If you ever get a chance to visit Zamboanga, these mosques are worth exploring.
Zamboanga City is home to some beautiful mosques that show the rich cultural and religious diversity of the Region of Zamboanga Peninsula.
Sadik Grand Mosque
The Sadik Grand Mosque is expected to be the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. It is designed to accommodate approximately 45,000 worshippers, and construction is nearing completion. The mosque is anticipated to become a significant cultural landmark for the region. It serves not only as a place of worship but also symbolizes unity and cultural heritage for the Muslim community throughout the Philippines.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Pasobolong, Zamboanga City
- By Car: If you’re driving, head towards MCLL Highway in Pasobolong, Zamboanga City. The mosque is located along this highway.
- By Public Transport: You can take a jeepney or bus that passes through MCLL Highway. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Sadik Grand Mosque.
Masjid Rainbow Zamboanga
The Rainbow Mosque, also known as Masjid Al-Islamia, is a colorful landmark in Zamboanga City. The bright colors of the mosque symbolize the diverse cultures of the region, making it a notable attraction for tourists due to its unique and vibrant exterior. After the siege in Marawi in 2017, the mosque was repainted as a tribute to the fallen heroes. It stands as a symbol of peace and unity.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Veterans Ave Ext., Zamboanga, Zamboanga del Sur
- By Car: If you’re driving, head towards Barangay Sta. Maria along Tumaga Road (Veterans Ave. Ext.). The mosque is located along this road and is easily recognizable due to its vibrant colors.
- By Public Transport: You can take a jeepney or bus that passes through Tumaga Road. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Rainbow Mosque.
Taluksangay Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in Mindanao, the Taluksangay Mosque, also known as Masjid Taluksangay, is essential to the spread of Islam in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Constructed by Hadji Abdul Maas Nuno in 1885, the mosque is renowned for its distinctive red dome, which contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery and flowing river. Despite past tensions, the mosque has remained a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the cultural diversity of Zamboanga City. It serves as a vital hub for the local Muslim community, with many fixtures inside donated by generous citizens.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Zamboanga, Zamboanga del Sur
- By Jeepney: From the city center, take a Taluksangay-bound jeepney along Sevilla Street, near the corner of Don Pablo Lorenzo Street. The queue is right in front of the Southway Square mall, near Plaza Pershing. Tell the driver to drop you off at the Taluksangay Mosque. The travel time is about 45 minutes.
- By Car: If you’re driving, head northeast from the city center towards Barangay Taluksangay. The mosque is located approximately 18 km from the city center. You can take the AH26 route and the Zamboanga City Diversion Road
- By Tricycle or Motorcycle: You can also hire a tricycle or a motorcycle (locally known as “habal-habal”) to take you directly to the mosque. These are common forms of transportation in Zamboanga City and can be easily found.
Al-Zahra Mosque
The Al-Zahra Mosque, also known as the Al-Zahra Islamic Learning Centre and Village Mosque, serves as both a place of worship and an educational center. It functions as a central hub for the Muslim community, hosting cultural and religious events. The mosque features traditional Islamic architectural elements, enhancing its significance in the community.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location:
- By Jeepney: From the city center, take a jeepney that passes along Veterans Avenue. The Al-Zahra Mosque is located along this avenue, so you can ask the driver to drop you off near the mosque.
- By Car: If you’re driving, head towards Veterans Avenue. The mosque is situated along this road, making it easily accessible by car.
Kasanyangan Masjid
The Kasangayan Mosque, also known as Masjid Ahmad Sakaluran, is an important cultural and religious landmark in the area. It holds significant cultural and historical value for the Muslim community in Zamboanga City. The mosque serves as a venue for cultural preservation, community gatherings, and religious activities. It plays a vital role in spreading Islamic beliefs and customs among the residents of Barangay Kasanyangan.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Zamboanga, Zamboanga del Sur
- By Jeepney: From the city center, take a jeepney that passes through Barangay Kasanyangan. You can ask the driver to drop you off near the Kasangayan Mosque. Jeepneys are a common and affordable mode of transportation in Zamboanga City.
- By Car: If you’re driving, head towards Barangay Kasanyangan. The mosque is located in this area.
