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Larabanga Mosque

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Historical site
—°1
Larabanga Mosque (Ghana)

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The Larabanga Mosque is the oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the most significant examples of Sudanese architectural style in West Africa, dating back to 1421. Located in the village of Larabanga, it is often referred to as the 'Mecca of West Africa' due to its long-standing religious importance and spiritual aura. The mosque's unique construction utilizes mud, reeds, and horizontal timber logs that provide structural support and give the building its distinctive spiked appearance. Its brilliant white exterior is maintained through a traditional whitewashing process that occurs regularly to protect the mud walls from the elements. A prized possession within the mosque is an ancient Quran, which local tradition holds fell from heaven as a gift to the mosque's founder, Ayuba. Despite its fragile composition, the mosque has stood for over six centuries, surviving numerous environmental challenges. It is recognized as a historic monument and has benefited from conservation efforts by the World Monuments Fund to preserve its authentic form and cultural legacy.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262931302927262626272726
Rain mm3144080106131161154191117213

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Larabanga Mosque can be viewed from outside; the interior is only accessible to Muslims during prayer times. Non-Muslims are usually not allowed inside, but the exterior grounds are public.
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Typical hours
The mosque is accessible around the clock, but prayer times must be respected. There are no fixed visiting hours for tourists, so caution is needed.
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Photography
Photography of the exterior is expressly allowed and very popular due to the unique mud-brick architecture. Ask for permission before photographing people.
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Time needed
Allow about 20-30 minutes for viewing the exterior and taking photos. A chat with the local guide may extend the time.
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Combine with
The mosque is in the village of Larabanga, also known for traditional crafts. Nearby is Mole National Park, which features a safari experience.
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Getting there
Larabanga lies on the main road between Tamale and Damango, reachable by bus or car. From the road, the mosque is a few minutes' walk.
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Insider tip
Visit the mosque early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photos. A small donation towards the mosque's maintenance is appreciated.

Geography

Coordinates
9.22170, -1.86060

Facts

  • Founded in 1421, making it the oldest mosque in Ghana.
  • Built using traditional mud-and-stick (Sudanese) architecture.
  • Often referred to by locals as the 'Mecca of West Africa'.
  • Contains an ancient Quran believed to have been a divine gift.
  • The World Monuments Fund listed it as a threatened site in 2002.
  • The mosque is located near the entrance to Mole National Park.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Larabanga MosqueLarabanga Mosque<1 km · NWExplore →
Northern Bird SanctuaryNorthern Bird Sanctuary51 km · NEExplore →
Mole National ParkMole National Park53 km · EExplore →
Mole SafariMole Safari68 km · EExplore →
Acacia Savanna WildlifeAcacia Savanna Wildlife76 km · NEExplore →
Buipe Cement PlantBuipe Cement Plant93 km · NWExplore →
White VoltaWhite Volta99 km · NExplore →
Black VoltaBlack Volta107 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Larabanga Mosque (1)

Mystic Stone📍 landmark

A prominent sacred stone attraction situated near the historic Larabanga Mosque.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How old is the Larabanga Mosque?
It is considered one of West Africa's oldest mosques, dating back to 1421.
What materials is it made of?
It was built in the Sudano-Sahelian style using mud and reeds.
Can non-Muslims enter the mosque?
Usually no, but you can view and photograph the exterior.
Where is Larabanga located?
In northern Ghana, right at the entrance to Mole National Park.
What is the 'Sacred Stone'?
A nearby rock that legend says returns to its spot whenever moved.
Larabanga Mosque: where is it located?
Larabanga Mosque is located in Ghana.
Larabanga Mosque: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Larabanga Mosque: why is it worth visiting?
The Larabanga Mosque is the oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the most significant examples of Sudanese architectural style in West Africa, dating back to 1421.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Mole National Park — Larabanga Mosque (Ghana)
Mole National Park
Ghana's largest wildlife refuge, famous for walking safaris and close encounters with wild elephants.

History & landmarks

Larabanga Mosque — Larabanga Mosque (Ghana)
Larabanga Mosque
The oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the oldest in West Africa, built in the Sudano-Sahelian style.

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Salaga Slave Market — Larabanga Mosque (Ghana)
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Northern Bird Sanctuary — Larabanga Mosque (Ghana)
Northern Bird Sanctuary
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Mole Safari — Larabanga Mosque (Ghana)
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A guided tour to see elephants in the wild.
Acacia Savanna Wildlife — Larabanga Mosque (Ghana)
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Habitat for many wild animals in the north.