Temple Square Salt Lake

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Known for its cultural, social and economical diversities, it comes as no surprise that China is also home to a multitude of religions. Beijing, the Chinese capital, which lies on the Northwest slopes of North China, has a dense network of roads which leads to the most interesting historical and cultural monuments that glorify the pride of China. There are around 80 mosques found in the country, evidently showing the impact of Islam in China for over a millennium. Niujie Mosque is considered to be the largest among the 68 mosques found in Beijing, built in 996 AD in Nuijie Stree, Xuanwu district which is the largest Muslim populated area of the city. A visit to this oldest and the largest mosque of Beijing will prove to be worthwhile as it shows influences of both Islamic and Chinese cultures in its architectural features. The mosque, built of timber covers an area of about 6000 square meters, contains a 300 year old hand written copy of the Koran, among its many other precious cultural relics. The Niujie Mosque which was renovated was visited by many during the time of the Beijing Olympics in 2008. This beautiful mosque features an observatory tower where ancient astrology was practiced with the use of the lunar calendar, a main prayer hall where Muslims can go for prayers, a spacious courtyard and two pavilions with stone steles. The exterior of the buildings shows Chinese influence while the interior decorations are rich with Islamic flavour. The two tombs bearing Arabic inscriptions that can be seen to the southeast of the tower belong to the two Muslims who came from Persia during the Yuan Dynasty period to preach in the mosque. Among the many Beijing tourist attractions , which can be visited during a trip to the Niujie Mosque are the Beijing Museum of Ancient Architecture, The Grand View Garden, ruins of the old Summer Palace, Bird’s Nest National Museum where the Olympics were held last year, Temple of Heaven and Simatai Great Wall where one can gain a less crowded experience of the famous Chinese Wall. Among the well known Beijing serviced apartments that hold a prime status as a perfect corporate housing option for business travelers as well as anyone else looking for a temporary stay is Luxury Serviced Residence, Beijing. Each duplex apartment is adorned with Scandinavian interior design, creating a comfortable and spacious ambience. A property of the Somerset Serviced Residence this property is located at the Jian Hua Nan Road in Chaoyang District, with easy access to many tourist destinations of Beijing.