Hala Sultan Tekke or the Mosque of Umm Haram is a very prominent shrine near Larnaca, both Muslims and Christians consider the tomb as a sacred place. Therefore it attracts the faithful from both religions. The Hala Sultan Tekke is an Islamic shrine, unusual in that it is dedicated to a woman, built between 1760 and 1796. Overlooking the Salt Lake, where flamingoes stop en route from Africa in spring and autumn, it is a peaceful, beautiful spot for a mosque.
According to accounts, Hala Sultan Tekke (or Umm Haram), being of very old age, had fallen from her mule and had died during a siege of Larnaca. Umm Haram was an aunt of an associate of the Prophet Mohammed. She was buried near the salt lake and her grave became a sacred shrine. The shrine, and later the mosque and the whole complex was named after her.
HOW TO GET THERE
Located on the outskirts of Larnaca, 3km from the town centre on the road to Kiti, past Larnaca airport, admission is free, but respect is compulsory.
OPENING HOURS
Apr-May & Sep-Oct: 9am-6pm
Jun-Aug 7:30am-7:30pm
Nov-Mar: 9am-5pm
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