Buyuk Mosque, Larnaca

Buyuk Mosque is much more than a tourist attraction in Larnaca. The mosque is a place of pilgrimage for Muslims as it is thought to be the first Ottoman mosque built in Cyprus. Buyuk Mosque is sometimes referred to as the Grand Mosque or the Kebir Mosque.

The mosque was constructed in 1835 by Segit Mehmet Elkhak on the site of a 13th century Catholic church. It is a two-story building with a large minaret and an outdoor courtyard. Marble tombs bearing Islamic inscriptions are located outside. Also outside of the mosque is a drinking fountain that was built in 1748. It was constructed to draw water from Larnaca's aqueduct.

All visitors are welcome at the mosque. However, all visitors must remove their shoes before entering the building. Likewise, women must keep their heads and shoulders covered while inside as a sign of respect.