Guoguo Mosque in Eryuan County, Dali

Overview

Guoguo Mosque is located in Cibi Township, Eryuan County, Yunnan Province, China. Its exact founding date is unknown, but it has undergone multiple reconstructions over the years, notably restored and expanded in 1985 after severe damage during the Cultural Revolution. The mosque currently covers an area of 2.5 acres and features brick and wood structure in the style of ancient architecture.

Historical Background

The establishment date of Guoguo Mosque is uncertain. It was destroyed after the failure of the Du Wenxiu uprising in the eleventh year of the Tongzhi era (1872). Later, a single room in Nanheba, Daguo Village served as a makeshift mosque. In 1922, reconstruction efforts began, adding two ear rooms. Severely damaged during the Cultural Revolution and neglected over time, it fell into disrepair and was no longer in use. It underwent restoration and expansion in 1985, focusing on the main prayer hall and ear rooms.

Scale and Structure

Guoguo Mosque occupies 2.5 acres, with the main prayer hall covering 400 square meters. It is built in brick and wood, following the style of ancient architecture. The main hall features three doors with screen-style carved screens, leading to a hall corridor supported by wooden columns. The mosque grounds are adorned with lush green bamboo and stone steps, creating a serene atmosphere. A notable artifact is the ancient plaque “万化归真” (Wanhua Guizhen), presented by Zhang Fengming, the Governor of Heqing, Yunnan in the twenty-ninth year of the Guangxu era (1903), displayed above the main entrance of the hall.

Community and Facilities

Guoguo Mosque serves 106 households and 518 people, all belonging to the Hui ethnic group and adhering to the Gedimu sect of Islam.

Location and Transportation

• Address: Cibi Township, Eryuan County, Yunnan Province, China

Guoguo Mosque stands as a testament to resilience and community spirit, having survived historical challenges and restoration efforts, maintaining its significance as a cultural and religious landmark in Yunnan Province.