Century-old Dungan Mosque Made of Pine and Fir
The surroundings of Issyk-Kul are not only resort areas but also significant historical sites that embody several cultures and eras. One such historical landmark is the Dungan Mosque in Karakol.
In 1877, Dungan refugees from China settled in the city of Karakol and established a community here. In 1907, an architect from Beijing, Zhou Si, was invited to the area, and together with a group of about 20 builders (roofers, stonemasons, woodcarvers), he began preparing materials for the future mosque. The building materials included Tien Shan fir, elm, and local poplar, with walnut wood also used for finishing work. Preparation took 3 years, and in 1910, the Dungan Mosque was completed, built in the best traditions of Chinese architecture. The design of the mosque reflects the architectural style of the Qing dynasty.
The uniqueness of the structure lies in the fact that not a single nail was used in its construction: all parts of the building are connected through notches and grooves. The foundation of the Dungan Mosque measures 27x15 m, and the layout is traditionally rectangular. Numerous columns are located around the perimeter of the building, and windows are arranged in the southern and northern walls. The western part of the mosque has no windows, as it faces the praying congregation. The ornamental patterns on the cornices are unique works of art, depicting scenes from traditional Chinese mythology: dragons, phoenixes, lions, and mythical creatures. According to legends, they protect the mosque from evil spirits.
The coloring of the building, the material, and the color of the roof in Dungan architecture are strictly regulated. All wooden parts and columns were painted red, the walls – purple, and the roof – green, with carved structures in two colors: plant patterns (grapes, pomegranates, pears, and peaches) – in green, and mythical animals – in yellow.
In folk mythology, each color has a specific meaning: red – protects the building from evil spirits and disasters, yellow – brings wealth and grandeur, and green – prosperity and happiness. It currently functions as a Muslim mosque.
The Dungan Mosque is a vivid example of Chinese culture in Kyrgyzstan. Having stood for a century and protected by supernatural forces, it brings tranquility and peace to the hearts of guests and visitors.