Cotabato City has been stained with negative publicity because of the known bombing, corruption and political conflict. It is also the reason why people think twice before visiting the place. Some media also exaggerating the news that leads to more hesitation. But contrary to that belief Cotabato City is now a peaceful place. I have been there myself, and what makes my visit more exciting? We drop by at the grandest and biggest mosque in the country The Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid. Located at Barangay Kalangan II, Cotabato City the mosque occupies 5,000 square meter areas on a 15 hectares property donated by Rep. Didagen Piang Dilangalen. The reported cost for construction is about US$48 Million, and it was partly funded by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam.
My visit to the place feels like I’m outside the Philippines for its majestic view. The grand mosque features four minarets which are 40 meters high that is equivalent of almost 12-story building, and has 14 golden domes that make it more magnificent.
The mosque shows elegance despite of the simplicity in design, though it is a Muslim house of worship the designers and architects behind this project are Christians.
I was also amazed on how they well maintained the cleanliness of the place; you can even sit on the floor.
You will really find yourself like you’re in the Middle East while roaming around the majestic place. It also awakens the inner child in me, imagining that I was in the scene of the Disney animated movie Aladdin. Yeah right!
The Grand Mosque can cater 40,000 worshipers.
Today the majestic Grand Mosque becomes one of the most popular landmarks in Cotabato City. Truth to be told the region has so many historic places and landmarks that need to be visited and waiting to be discover.
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I personally visited this Masjid when I was on Philippines tour. This is a very beautiful mosque and we say prayer there. I went there before orlando bus tours. I never found any bomb blast over there. It might because I went there about ten years back. It’s considered one of the largest mosque in the Philippines. Every person who love see some art work must visit this mosque.
ReplyDeleteIf given another chance, surely I will visit the place again. ^_^
ReplyDeleteYes !!! i am from Cotabato City and i am proud of the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid.
ReplyDeleteCome visit the holy place. Tell your friends. :)