Yingweicun Mosque in Weishan County, Dali

Basic Information

  • Chinese Name: 巍山营尾村清真寺
  • English Name: Yingweicun Mosque
  • Location: Yingweicun Village, Yongjian Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China

Introduction

Yingweicun Mosque is situated in Yingweicun Village, Yongjian Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It serves as a religious and cultural center for the local Hui Muslim community.

Historical Background

  • Founding: The exact founding date of Yingweicun Mosque is unknown. It was destroyed during the 11th year of Tongzhi Emperor’s reign (1872) and subsequently rebuilt. It has undergone three renovations, with the most recent expansion in 1977.

Structural Features

  • Architecture: The mosque covers approximately 4 acres of land. The main prayer hall features a single-eave gable roof style (单檐歇山式), with a total construction area of 530 square meters. Adjacent to the prayer hall are several wooden structures used as classrooms and dormitories.
  • Community Facilities: The mosque supports a community of over 100 households and 750 people, all belonging to the Gedi clan. It is home to approximately 65 imams (阿訇).

Cultural and Community Contributions

  • Cultural Significance: Yingweicun Mosque plays a significant role in preserving and promoting Islamic cultural heritage in the region. It provides educational facilities and religious guidance, contributing to the spiritual and cultural development of the local Hui Muslim community.
  • Educational Initiatives: The mosque likely hosts educational programs such as Islamic studies and language classes, fostering the growth of religious knowledge and community cohesion.

Visitor Tips

For visitors to Yingweicun Mosque:

  1. Respectful Conduct: Dress modestly and adhere to mosque etiquette. Remove shoes before entering prayer areas and maintain respectful behavior during prayers.
  2. Cultural Experience: Explore the historical and cultural richness of the Hui Muslim community in Yingweicun Village. Consider participating in local events or educational programs to learn more about Islamic traditions and practices.
  3. Guided Tours: Arrange for guided tours to learn about the mosque’s history, architecture, and community contributions.

Getting There

Yingweicun Mosque is located in Yingweicun Village, Yongjian Town, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. It is accessible via local roads, situated in the central-western part of Yongjian Ba Zi. The village derives its name from the military camp established during the Ming Dynasty, known as Yingtou Village. It is also known as Yingwei Upper Village or Hui Yingweicun Village, situated above the Han Chinese Yingweixia Village.

Yingweicun Mosque stands as a testament to the enduring cultural heritage and religious traditions of the Hui Muslim community in Weishan County, contributing to local identity and spiritual life.