An-Nur Grand Mosque

The Splendor of An-Nur Grand Mosque's Architecture: The Taj Mahal of Lancang Kuning Land

An-Nur Grand Mosque is more than just a place of worship for the people of Pekanbaru; it is a monument of identity that blends Islamic spirituality with Malay cultural pride. Standing tall in the heart of Riau Province's capital, this mosque is often dubbed the "Taj Mahal of Indonesia" due to its silhouette's resemblance to the monument of love in Agra, India. However, behind this label, An-Nur Grand Mosque holds a much deeper architectural narrative, reflecting an evolution of design that marries Middle Eastern, Indian, and local Riau wisdom aesthetics.

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Historical Context and Development Evolution

The construction of An-Nur Grand Mosque began in 1963 on the initiative of the first Governor of Riau, Kaharuddin Nasution. The mosque was completed and inaugurated in 1968. However, the magnificent form we see today is the result of a total renovation and massive expansion carried out in 2000 under the leadership of Governor Saleh Djasit.

This transformation process changed the mosque's function from a mere single place of worship to an integrated Islamic Center complex. Its designer, architect Ir. H. Roseno, succeeded in preserving the essence of the old structure while injecting modern elements that strengthened its iconic character. The mosque's area, spanning 12.6 hectares, makes it one of the largest mosque complexes in Southeast Asia, providing breathing room amidst Pekanbaru's urban hustle.

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Design Philosophy and Architectural Style

Visually, An-Nur Grand Mosque adopts an eclectic architectural style. Mughal influence is very dominant, clearly seen in the use of one large central dome surrounded by four smaller domes at each corner of the roof. Four tall minarets standing separately from the main building emphasize the building's symmetry, a design principle commonly found in classic Islamic architecture in India and Persia.

However, a keen observer will find a strong Malay touch in its details. The predominant use of green and yellow colors is not without reason; green symbolizes fertility and Islam, while yellow is the color of grandeur in the Malay Sultanate tradition. This combination creates a visual harmony that asserts that Islam in Riau thrives on a strong foundation of local culture.

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Structural Innovations and Unique Elements

One of the most prominent aspects of An-Nur Grand Mosque is its three-story layout. The ground floor functions as the management office, library, and meeting room, while the upper floor is entirely dedicated to the main prayer hall.

The most stunning architectural element is the use of marble for the floors and walls, providing a cool effect amidst Pekanbaru's generally hot weather. The mosque's interior is adorned with intricate calligraphy, crafted by expert artists. The mosque's mihrab is designed with a grand arch, using gold accents that give a luxurious yet solemn impression.

Another uniqueness lies in its lighting and ventilation system. The mosque's main dome not only functions as an aesthetic element but also as an air valve that allows for natural circulation. At night, the exterior lighting system is designed in such a way that the mosque's shadow is perfectly reflected on the large pond located in the front courtyard, creating a magical visual illusion and reinforcing its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.

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Cultural and Social Significance

An-Nur Grand Mosque has transcended its function as a religious institution. It serves as a "social lung" for the people of Pekanbaru. Its spacious courtyard, planted with date palms and well-maintained gardens, serves as a public space where people interact. The presence of date palms here is not just decorative but a symbol of Middle Eastern vegetation adapting to the tropics, which has now become a unique religious agro-tourism attraction.

Culturally, this mosque is a symbol of Malay civilization, which is synonymous with Islam. The proverb "Adat Bersendi Syarak, Syarak Bersendi Kitabullah" (Custom is based on Sharia, Sharia is based on the Book of Allah) is reflected in the existence of this building. The mosque serves as a center for major activities such as provincial and national MTQ (Quran Recitation Competitions), and is a primary gathering point for Islamic holiday celebrations in Riau.

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Visitor Experience and Contemporary Functions

Upon entering the An-Nur Grand Mosque complex, visitors are greeted by a grand gate and a spacious parking area. Access to the main hall on the upper floor can be reached via a grand staircase designed to provide a sense of transition from the noisy outside world to the serene place of worship.

The supporting facilities within the complex are comprehensive, including a school (from kindergarten to high school), a multi-purpose hall, and a modern digital library. This indicates that An-Nur's architectural vision is to create an educational and social ecosystem, not just a static monument. For tourists, guides are available to explain the history and architectural details, making a visit here a comprehensive educational experience.

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Conclusion: An Architectural Legacy for the Future

An-Nur Grand Mosque is a masterpiece that successfully bridges Riau's past and future. Through the selection of durable materials, iconic design, and diverse functional integration, this mosque remains relevant amidst the city's modernization. Its existence proves that Islamic architecture in Indonesia is capable of absorbing global influences (Mughal and Middle Eastern) without losing its local identity (Malay).

As an icon of Riau Province, An-Nur Grand Mosque stands not only as a place of prostration but as a silent witness to the development of civilization in the Land of Lancang Kuning. It is a fusion of concrete, marble, and faith; a structure that inspires anyone who beholds it to contemplate the beauty of the Creator through human design genius.