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Islam arrived in Goa in the 14th century after the successful campaigns of the Delhi Sultanate. The region again came under Hindu influence under the Vijayanagar Kingdom. Islam got back after the victory of the Bahmani Sultanate of Deccan in the mid 15th century. After that, Islamic rulers ruled Goa till the defeat of the Adil Shahi dynasty by the Portuguese admiral Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510. Islam never became a major religion in the state. However, a minority of Muslims still resides in Goa, and there are a few mosques which are historic and serve the religious purposes of the followers of Islam. The mosques of Goa are among the notable religious spots of the state and are greatly revered by the Muslims of Goa. Id-Ul-Fitr and Id-Ul-Zuha, the two major festivals of Islam, are celebrated in all the mosques of Goa.
Important mosques of Goa :
Jama Masjid :
This well known mosque is located in Sanguim Taluka and is among the most important mosques of Goa. The mosque is located about 25 kilometers from Margao. Built in the last century, the grand mosque was rebuilt in 1959. The impressive structure of the mosque attracts attention with its entrance façade which is surrounded by four elegant minarets. The elegance of the structure is indicative of the Islamic traditions that were carried here from the Deccan. The Jama Masjid is a greatly revered religious spot for the Muslims. All the major Islamic festivals are celebrated with a lot of fanfare here.
Safa Masjid :
This is said to be the largest mosque in Goa. It was built by Ibrahim Adil shah, the sultan of Bijapur, in 1560. This grand and famous mosque in Goa is located in Ponda, a small town in Goa. The chief feature of the mosque is the multi- chambered tank. The beautiful garden and fountains were destroyed by the Portuguese.
Namazgah :
Mughul emperor Akbar built this mosque on the scenic hill in Bicholim. The tomb of Hazrat Abdullah Khan Shahid is located here.
Learn more about the religious spots in Goa and tourism in Goa in Goatrip.com.
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