Boorhaanol Islam Mosque, Cape Town

The Boorhaanol Islam Mosque was built in 1884. It was originally known as Pilgrim Mosque and featured the first minaret in Cape Town. The minaret features a tower with a balcony. The balcony is used to call the faithful to prayer five times a day. The tall, distinctive minaret also serves as a visual reminder to the Muslim community.

The Boorhaanol Islam Mosque's original minaret was made from wood and blew down in a storm in the 1930s. The current minaret is made from concrete.

Boorhaanol Islam Mosque is the only mosque in Cape Town that has been declared a National Monument. In keeping with the rest of the Bo-Kaap district, it is painted in bright seafoam green with eye-catching white trim.

The Dutch and British occupiers were often hostile to the practice of the Muslim faith. Throughout much of the 20th century, the Muslim community was burdened by racist attitudes and laws. Since 1994, all religions are permitted to practice freely.

Besides providing a spiritual center to the Cape Malay Muslim community, the Boorhaanol Islam Mosque provides community services and programs.