This archive report was first published on 31 July 2019.
Located in Mombasa's Old Town, Mandhry Mosque is a remarkable architectural wonder that has stood the test of time. Built in 1570, 23 years before Fort Jesus, this ancient mosque is one of only two in the world with two mirhabs, a unique feature that points to the direction of Mecca.
According to Dr. Kalandar Khan, a local historian, the mosque was constructed by the Mandhry Clan, who settled in the area after the Portuguese invasion. The clan sought help from Oman, which led to the construction of the mosque as a house of worship.
The mosque's minaret, a feature found in only three other mosques in the Coast region, symbolized the mightiness of God and served as a raised area for imams and sheikhs to make the adhan (call for prayers). Adjacent to the mosque is the Mandhry well, used for ablution, a traditional requirement for mosques.
Initially, the mosque was white, with coral used as mortar in its construction. However, over time, the original color faded, and the mosque was repainted yellow to preserve and beautify the monument.
