Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Hala Sultan Tekke, located in Larnaca, is one of the most important and famous legendary pilgrimage sites in Cyprus. It is a place where many Muslims from around the world come to pay their respects to a saintly figure and her contributions to the faith. Visiting this mystical site is an incredible experience and will give travelers a chance to learn more about the culture and history of Cyprus. In this blog, we will explore some interesting facts and information about Hala Sultan Tekke, as well as a thorough travel guide that will help ensure visitors have a great experience. So read on, and discover the beauty and significance of Hala Sultan Tekke in Larnaca.

Interesting Facts About Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca

1. The location of the Hala Sultan Tekke is believed to be the place where the aunt of Prophet Muhammad, Umm Haram, passed away after a camel she was riding drowned while crossing a river during the march from the Red Sea to Syria in 641 CE.

2. The site of the mosque was declared a protected monument in 1984, by the Department of Antiquities.

3. Access to the mosque is free, and it is open to visitors year-round.

4. The mosque is considered to be one of the holiest shrines for Muslims and is a popular pilgrimage destination.

5. The mosque consists of a large prayer hall and a smaller prayer hall, as well as a courtyard and entrance-way.

6. The mosque is decorated with various styles of Islamic art that serve as reminders of the importance of the site for its visitors.

7. Hala Sultan Tekke is home to many birds including flamingos and sea eagles, which makes it a popular destination not only for religious visitors but also for nature enthusiasts.

8. The mosque is also surrounded by a large cemetery with graves from the past centuries.

• Hala Sultan Mosque, Larnaca : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

History & Information About Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca

Hala Sultan Tekke is a small historical mosque located on the western side of Larnaca Salt Lake, on the Kiti-Meneou road in Cyprus. It is one of the island’s most important Islamic shrine, dedicated to Umm Haram, the grandmother of the Prophet Mohammed, who is said to have died in the area during a holy mission in the 7th century AD.

The mosque’s construction was commissioned by the then Ottoman Sultan, Mehmet IV, in 1668, and it was in disrepair by the 1820s when the Ajasemeni, the holy order of Alevi Muslims, took over the mosque and restored it, and it has been maintained by them ever since. The tekke has a modest building with a large prayer hall, a separate abode for the caliph, and a cemetery, as well as a large courtyard. The main courtyard of Hala Sultan Tekke is where the mosque is located, surrounded by orange orchards and a pool built in the 17th century.

The mosque has archaeological and religious importance, and is a recognizable landmark of Larnaca. It attracts many visitors year round and is popular with tourists, especially during the religious festivals of Ramadan and Jerusalem Day. The site also houses a museum dedicated to the Cypriot Alevi-Turkish tradition, which houses various artefacts and photographs pertaining to the mosque, its history and the culture of the Alevi-Turkish community on the island.

Hala Sultan Tekke is a part of the wider Larnaca Salt Lake Ramsar Site, which was officially declared a protected Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 1994. The mosque is a major tourist attraction in the area and it is included in the list of sights in the Larnaca UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Buyuk Han, Nicosia : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Ayios Neophytos Monastery, Paphos : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Ancient Amathus, Limassol : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Travel Guide For Visiting Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca

Hala Sultan Tekke is one of the most important archaeological sites in Cyprus. Located in Larnaca, it is believed to have been built to honor the uncle of Prophet Mohammad. It is an Islamic pilgrimage destination and is visited by people from all over the world.

Getting There:

Hala Sultan Tekke is located close to the Larnaca International Airport, which makes it easily accessible for tourists. It is approximately 15 minutes away by car from the airport. There are also several bus routes with busses passing by the site.

Things To Do and See:

Hala Sultan Tekke offers visitors an interesting insight into Islamic culture and the history of Larnaca. The mosque is among the oldest in the region, having been built around the 6th century. It is believed to have been built by the relatives of the Prophet Muhammad, who died at sea nearby. The tekke is considered an important pilgrimage site, and visitors can explore the mosque and learn about the various artifacts found here.

The surrounding areas also offer several activities that visitors can enjoy. This includes a stretch of beach, perfect for swimming or relaxing on hot summer days. There are also several cafes, restaurants, and bars close to the tekke, allowing visitors to enjoy some local delicacies.

Accommodations:

The town of Larnaca has a wide range of accommodation options for visitors wishing to stay close to Hala Sultan Tekke. These range from luxury hotels, budget hotels, and apartment rentals. Hotels located nearby tend to offer excellent views of the tekke and the beautiful coastline.

Other Tips:

• Although the mosque is always open, it is advised that visitors try to visit during the daytime when it is not too hot.

• Entrance to the tekke is free, so visitors don’t need to pre-book tickets.

• There are no nearby ATMs so visitors should make sure that they withdraw enough cash prior to visiting.

• Visitors should dress respectfully when visiting the mosque. Women should have their heads and tops covered and men should remove their shoes before entering.

• Make sure you bring a camera as there are some great photo opportunities at Hala Sultan Tekke.

• Bellapais Abbey, Kyrenia : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
• Ancient Amathus, Limassol : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Hala Sultan Tekke, Larnaca

Q1. Where is Hala Sultan Tekke located?

A1. Hala Sultan Tekke is located approximately 4 km west of Larnaca on the coast of Cyprus.

Q2. What is the significance of Hala Sultan Tekke?

A2. Hala Sultan Tekke is an important Islamic site, believed to be the tomb of Umm Haram, the foster mother of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad.

Q3. What can visitors to Hala Sultan Tekke expect to see?

A3. Visitors to Hala Sultan Tekke can expect to see a mosque, a mausoleum, and a courtyard with a small garden. There is also a museum at the site where visitors can learn more about the history of the site and the Islamic culture of the area.

• Ancient Salamis, Famagusta : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide