If you happen to visit the center of Jakata, then Istiqlal Mosque may not be far from you sight. The mosque which once claimed to be the biggest mosque in South East Asia has unique history. Do you know that the architect was Frederick Silaban, a devoted Christian?


Istiqlal Mosque and Cathedral Church located close each other as a symbol of harmony in the most populous Muslim country.

Located near the National Monument, Istiqlal sits across the historical Cathedral Church of Jakarta. Founded on August 24, 1961, the mosque was inaugurated on February 22, 1978 then President Soeharto. Since then the mosque has witnessed some prominent visitors such as President of United States Barack Obama and the First Lady, and recently is Chancellor of Germany, Angela Merkel.

Thousands of Muslim are praying Taraweh (prayer in the evening only during the month of Ramadhan).

Now here are some pictures of Istiqlal, to celebrate and cheering the fasting month of Ramadhan. During the holy month, the mosque is not only for worship, but also for a range of activities for adult and children as well. Enjoy Istiqlal, the symbol of independence.

A man recites Quran after noon prayer.

The mosque are for all! Istiqlal mosque also has a special program for children, called Pesantren Ramadhan or boarding school during Ramadhan. About a hundred children learn about Islamic values. 

Some volunteers are preparing food for iftar or breaking the fasting.Every day they cook around 100 kilograms of rice, 150 kilograms of vegetables, and 100 kilograms of meat to prepare at least 2,000-2,500 boxes of meal for Muslims during iftar. 

A man arranges boxes of meal for iftar in Istiqlal.

Source: Republika

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