First stop in Medan: Grand Mosque of Medan (Day 11)

The evening of my arrival, as I wandered about looking for something to eat and just checking out the city, I just barely caught a glimpse of the spire atop the minaret. First, first stop. I have not had a chance to visit many mosques–before this–just two in North Cyprus–which were very beautiful but maybe different from what may usually come to mind.

I love the geometry and symmetry of Islamic art and design like this. There were very few visitors. It was cool and welcoming inside. You could just wander or sit, whichever you liked.

On approach from the cemetery side.

Street vendors here usually do a brisk business and have robust protection from the elements–today, the hot sun. I was a little early.

Wide angle of the external aisle and the minaret.

Wide view of the mosque interior. I just sat on the plush carpet for quite a while.

Looking up past the minbar, or pulpit, at the chandelier in the center of the dome. The bright green band is the partition between men and women.

Look up! Gazing straight into the dome is like looking through a kaleidoscope.

Closer.

It was a good start to the day and to my visit to Medan.