Lianhuatang Mosque in Gejiu City, Honghe

Overview

Lianhuatang Mosque, located in Shadian Township, Gejiu City, Yunnan Province, began as a residential house and officially transformed into a mosque in 1980 with the construction of its main prayer hall. The mosque currently spans an area of 1100 square meters and houses a collection of 180 volumes of Arabic religious texts.

Historical Background

Establishment: In 1976, some Hui villagers from Shadian resettled in Lianhuatang without a mosque. Initially, they used residential houses as temporary prayer halls until the construction of the main prayer hall began in 1980.

Expansion and Development: By 1990, with the support and donations from the Muslim community led by Ma Canwu and Wang Yunhu, the mosque expanded to include additional facilities such as minarets, side rooms, classrooms, dormitories, and bathing rooms.

Scale and Architecture

The mosque’s current architectural footprint covers 1100 square meters, designed in a traditional Chinese ancient style.

Community Engagement

Community Profile: Lianhuatang Mosque serves 70 households totaling 305 individuals, including 3 scholars (xue dong), 3 imams (ahong), and 40 muezzins (manla), all belonging to the Hui ethnic group. In recent years, the mosque established a Sino-Arab school, receiving praise from various sectors of society. The mosque also houses a collection of 180 volumes of Arabic religious texts.

Leadership and Contribution: Notable figures in the mosque community include Wang Lianke, Ma Shuangdi, Ma Hongguang, Ma Huicong, and Ma Caiying, who play key roles in mosque activities and community leadership.

Geography and Travel Tips

Location: Lianhuatang Mosque is situated in Shadian Township, Gejiu City, Yunnan Province.

Travel Tips: Travelers visiting Lianhuatang Mosque should respect local customs and dress modestly when entering the mosque premises. It is advisable to inquire about prayer times and any specific visitor guidelines from mosque authorities before visiting.