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Jember mosque serves as icon of religious tourism in East Java
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Illustration of a mosque. Muslims in East Java can be found visiting mosques in several cities across the province during Ramadhan, (Shutterstock/File)
The Tourism Ministry is set to promote religious tourism during Ramadhan.
One of the most popular tourist activities during the holy month is the wali songo (nine saints of Islam who spread the religion across the island of Java) pilgrimage, which involves journeying from Cirebon in West Java to Demak and Kudus in Central Java and Tuban and Surabaya in East Java.
Muslims in East Java can also be found visiting mosques in several cities across the province, which includes the Roudhotul Muchlisin Mosque in Jember.
Read also: Aceh hosts religious activities during Ramadhan
Built in 1978, the mosque underwent a renovation in 2014 and its new look was officiated on May 15.
Adorned in yellow and orange colors, the new design was inspired by Turkish mosques. Right before the entrance door, there is a colorful fountain that will catch the eyes of visitors.
Stepping in, visitors will find Quranic verses on every corner of the walls. The pillars are also decorated with ornaments that make the place looks like a palace. Meanwhile, Qurans are perfectly stacked in some corners of the mosque.
Read also: Tourist numbers decline during Ramadhan
The mosque has 2,500-person capacity and every day it welcomes more than 1,000 visitors.
Apart from being a place of worship, it also hosts religious studies where people learn the meaning of the verses written on the walls.
In the near future, the management plans to build a tower that will serve as a library and resting place for travelers. (kes)
