Urumqi Tartar Mosque

The magnificent Tartar Mosque, located at the south end of the Jiefang Road of Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, was built by the local Tartar people in 1897 entirely from donations. It is considered one of the oldest in Urumqi. Now, it is the center for peaceful Islamic activities in the city. Covering over 3,000 square meters (0.74 acre), the community worship hall alone is over 800 square meters (0.2 acre) and accommodates people by the thousands. As expected, the decor is elaborate with exquisite porches, carvings, and paintings all throughout.