Palm Tree Mosque Cape Town
South Africa's second oldest mosque, established in 1820 by freed slaves, a vital piece of Cape Town's Muslim heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience active worship
Palm Tree Mosque Cape Town
Best Time
Experience active worship
Highlights
Must-see attractions
South Africa's second oldest mosque, established in 1820 by freed slaves, a vital piece of Cape Town's Muslim heritage.
"This place personifies history and the legacy of Islam in Cape Town, South Africa."
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for worshippers. :pray:
Be Mindful of Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer times for a quieter experience. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Long Street
Discover the charm of this 1788 building, converted into a mosque in 1820 by freed slaves.
Legacy of Cape Malay History
Interior
Experience the deep roots of Islam in Cape Town, established by exiled Southeast Asians.
Community Hub
Long Street
A warm, family-oriented mosque serving the community for over 200 years.
Planning Your Visit
Understand Its Historical Significance
+1Respectful Visiting Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for worshippers. :pray:
Be Mindful of Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer times for a quieter experience. :clock1:
Learn the History
Understand its significance as SA's second oldest mosque. :scroll:
Explore Long Street
The mosque is centrally located on a vibrant street. :city_sunrise:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for worshippers. :pray:
Be Mindful of Prayer Times
Visit outside of prayer times for a quieter experience. :clock1:
Learn the History
Understand its significance as SA's second oldest mosque. :scroll:
Explore Long Street
The mosque is centrally located on a vibrant street. :city_sunrise:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palm Tree Mosque for its profound historical significance as South Africa's second oldest mosque and its role in the legacy of Islam in Cape Town. Many appreciate the warm, family-like atmosphere and its continued service to the community. Some note its humble appearance within a busy street, which can be both charming and easily overlooked.
"The second oldest Masjid/Mosque in Cape Town and South Africa. This place personfies history and the legacy of Islam in Cape Town, South Africa. Warm, quaint and serving the community at large, Muslim and non Muslim, for over 200 years is a proud legacy to be a part of."
Zaheer Parker
"A small masjid in a busy street of Cape town in the central district. It's the Only masjid over Long street. It's Made inside a house by devoted Muslim family"
Muhammad Naeem Puri
"Close knit family oriented mosque. That has its roots firmly placed in a challenging area of the CBD. It's open to the public for daily prayers."
Niezaar Kamalie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palm Tree Mosque is located on Long Street in the central district of Cape Town. It's easily accessible by car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Public transport options are also available, with various bus routes stopping nearby.
Parking on Long Street can be challenging due to its popularity. It's advisable to look for paid parking lots or garages in the vicinity or consider using ride-sharing services for convenience.
If you are staying in the Cape Town CBD or Bo-Kaap area, walking to Palm Tree Mosque is a pleasant option. The surrounding streets are vibrant and offer a good way to experience the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Palm Tree Mosque is an active place of worship and does not require an entrance ticket. Visitors are welcome to enter and experience its historical significance.
As an active mosque, it's best to visit outside of the five daily prayer times. While there are no strict 'visiting hours,' respecting prayer times ensures a peaceful experience for worshippers.
There is no admission fee to visit Palm Tree Mosque. Donations are always appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic site.
Yes, non-Muslims are welcome to visit Palm Tree Mosque. It's an opportunity to learn about the history of Islam in Cape Town and appreciate the architecture.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women may wish to bring a headscarf. This is out of respect for the sacred space.
Photography is generally permitted, but it's always best to be discreet and avoid taking photos during prayer times. Always be respectful of worshippers.
Palm Tree Mosque is the second oldest mosque in South Africa, established in 1820 by freed slaves. It represents a crucial part of Cape Town's Muslim heritage and the history of the Cape Malay community.
Yes, Palm Tree Mosque remains an active place of worship, serving the local community for daily prayers and religious activities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Palm Tree Mosque is located on Long Street, which is renowned for its diverse array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering various cuisines. +1
Given the mosque's location in a central area with a significant Muslim population, you will find numerous Halal food options available on and around Long Street.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the mosque on Long Street offers a great photographic opportunity, showcasing its historic architecture. The interior, when accessible and respectful, can also provide unique shots.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be mindful of prayer times and worshippers. It's best to be discreet and ask for permission if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕌 Religious Visitors
🏛️ History Buffs
+1 Exploring its architecture and understanding its context within the broader Cape Malay heritage provides deep insights into the city's past.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Palm Tree Mosque
+1 This act of establishing a place of worship by formerly enslaved individuals underscores their resilience and commitment to their faith and community. The mosque's existence is a powerful symbol of the enduring presence and influence of Islam in Cape Town, tracing back to the arrival of the Cape Malays, who were exiled from Southeast Asia by the Dutch. The mosque's location on Long Street, a bustling thoroughfare in the city center, also highlights its integration into the urban fabric of Cape Town. It has served as a spiritual and community hub for over two centuries, welcoming both Muslims and non-Muslims.
Cape Malay Heritage and Islam in Cape Town
This heritage is not just historical; it continues to be a vibrant part of Cape Town's identity. The influence of Cape Malay culture can be seen in the city's cuisine, music, and architecture, particularly in areas like the Bo-Kaap.
Social
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