Mecca Masjid

Mecca Masjid is one of the largest and oldest mosques in India, located in the Old City of Hyderabad near Charminar. Construction began in 1614 under Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah and was completed in 1694 by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The mosque can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers and features granite arches carved from single stone slabs. Bricks used in construction were reportedly brought from Mecca.

Visitors can explore a vast courtyard with ablution facilities and admire the prayer hall supported by 15 intricately designed granite arches. The interior features Belgian crystal chandeliers and Quranic verses carved on arches and doors. Non-Muslims can visit the grounds but have restricted access to certain areas. Women must dress modestly with head coverings required.

Construction began in 1614 under Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah of the Qutb Shahi dynasty and was completed in 1694 by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb after his conquest of Golconda. The mosque took approximately 77 years and 8,000 masons to complete. It is a state-protected monument and was included on UNESCO's tentative World Heritage list in 2014.

The mosque serves as the primary mosque for Hyderabad's Old City and holds religious significance for the Muslim community. It represents Qutb Shahi architectural style with Persian influences and features floral motifs similar to those at Golconda Fort and Charminar.