Al Omari Mosque

Beirut


Built in the 12th century as the Church of John the Baptist of the Knights Hospitaller, this attractive building was converted into a mosque in 1291. It was the city's central Sunni mosque until construction of the nearby Mohammad Al Amin Mosque, and still has a large congregation. The beautiful lines of Romanesque stone contrast unusually with the soft red carpet. You can visit outside of prayer time.