Gyanvapi Mosque
Varanasi, India
- Explore the mosque architecture
- Learn about the historical disputes
- Visit the nearby Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Known for:
Description:
The Gyanvapi Mosque is a mosque located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is situated next to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of Hinduism's holiest sites. The mosque and temple share a common wall, and the site has been the subject of numerous legal disputes between Hindus and Muslims. The mosque is believed to have been constructed by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1669, after he demolished a portion of the existing Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The mosque's name, Gyanvapi, is derived from a nearby well, which is considered sacred by Hindus. The mosque is an important place of worship for Muslims, and it is also visited by tourists from all over the world.
History:
The Gyanvapi Mosque has a long and contested history. The site where the mosque stands is believed to have been the location of a Vishweshwar temple since the 12th century. In 1669, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of the temple and the construction of the Gyanvapi Mosque in its place. This act has been a source of contention between Hindus and Muslims for centuries. Several historical accounts and archaeological findings suggest the existence of a temple prior to the mosque. The mosque's construction involved using materials from the demolished temple, which is evident in some of its architectural features. The site has witnessed several legal battles and continues to be a sensitive religious and political issue in India.