Description
The Great Mosque of Medina Baye is an emblematic place in the city of Kaolack, Senegal. It is a sacred site and an important pilgrimage destination for many Muslims at home and abroad. Its construction began in 1937, under the direction of Sheikh al-Islam El Hadj Ibrahim NIASS, one of the great religious leaders of the time. Since then, the mosque has been enlarged and renovated several times, but still retains its historical architecture. The mosque has a unique mix of architectural styles. The influences of the Maghreb, Arabia and sub-Saharan Africa are found in the ornamental details and the different structures of the mosque. The main building is characterized by a huge dome, slender minarets and richly decorated columns. The Great Mosque of Medina Baye is considered an important teaching center of Sufi Islam. It welcomes students from different regions of Senegal and abroad, who come to learn the teachings of Sufism from eminent religious scholars. In addition, the mosque also houses a mausoleum where some of the members of the family of Sheikh al-Islam El Hadj Ibrahim NIASS rest. Every year, the Great Mosque of Medina Baye is the point of convergence of thousands of pilgrims during the celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PSL). Pilgrims flock to Kaolack to participate in this spiritual celebration, marked by prayers, religious songs and speeches.
