White Mosque, Nazareth

Nestled in Harat Alghama, also known as the "Mosque Quarter, the White Mosque stands as a testament to Ottoman-inspired craftsmanship that permeates the city. Beyond its role as a place of worship, the White Mosque actively serves the Muslim community of Nazareth.

Distinguished by its cream-colored walls, green-trimmed dome, and a pencil-shaped minaret, the White Mosque showcases the intricacies of Ottoman architecture. A beacon of religious and communal significance, the mosque attracts a steady congregation for daily prayers, with 100 to 200 worshippers attending noon and afternoon services. The Friday sermon, a congregational highlight, draws an impressive gathering of 2,000 to 3,000 individuals.

Steeped in history, the mosque houses a museum that meticulously documents Nazareth's recent past, providing visitors with insights into the rich heritage of the region. Its construction dates back to the latter half of the eighteenth century, financed by Sulayman Pasha al-Adil, the Egyptian Ottoman ruler. Overseeing the project was Sheikh Abdullah al-Fahoum, the high commissioner of Nazareth, who became its trustee through a waqf, a form of endowment.

Constructed between 1804 and 1808, the White Mosque became a testament to Sheikh Abdullah's vision for a new era symbolized by "white," representing purity, light, and peace. His tomb, a poignant reminder of his legacy, resides within the mosque's courtyard. Following his passing in 1815, Sheikh Amin al-Fahoum assumed the responsibility of managing the mosque's affairs.

Today, the White Mosque remains an integral part of the al-Fahoum family waqf, encompassing other significant structures such as the khan of the pasha on Casa Nova Street. Administered by one of Sheikh Abdullah's descendants, ʾAtif al-Fahoum, the mosque continues to stand as a symbol of unity and a beacon of cultural and spiritual heritage in the vibrant city of Nazareth.