Indonesia: A Mosque Which Was Built Overnight

Since now is the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in Indonesia, I'd like to share some pictures of a mosque that I visited last year in my hometown, Malang. I can't remember what I was browsing on the Internet when I came across an article about this mosque and thought, Whoa! This mosque looks beautiful. And it's in Malang? How come I've never heard about this before?

Masjid Tiban

The name is Masjid Tiban or Tiban Mosque. 'Tiban' in Indonesian means 'suddenly there'. Rumour has it, the locals believe that this mosque was built overnight by a genie. Because they've never seen this mosque nor the building process before and suddenly 'BOOM' one morning this mosque just appear in that area. (David Copperfield, please tell me did you do this ?)

The truth is Masjid Tiban was build since 1991 and until now it's not completely done yet. It's built in the middle of an Islamic boarding school in Turen area, about 1,5 hours from Malang city centre. Hajj Achmad Bahru Mafdloludin Sholeh, owner of the boarding school denied all the rumours.But I guess because of the rumours, this mosque became famous.

path to the unique mosque

other side of the mosque

some aquariums

interior

rest area

calligraphy

What I found fascinating was the details on the wall. I've been told that the students and pilgrims has been helping to build this mosque and they carved Islamic symbols or prayers on the wall. It looks so pretty in blue and white colour. Somehow I feel like I was in the Middle East country.

details on the wall

information centre

Tiban mosque is 9 storey high including souvenir shop, a canteen and a mini zoo. Each floor has different and unique interior. I was in awe looking at that pretty architecture and details.
It is open for public and free of charge for any visitors. However please bear in mind to dress in decent clothes including covering your arms, knees and even better your hair to respect their religion.