Abu Dhabi, UAE
We ventured out to our second Emirate (Dubai is one of 7 city-states that make up the United Arab Emirates) early in the morning. Hilary and I passed the long car ride by reading the arabic numerals on license plates. Once in Abu Dhabi, we met up with Olsen, another friend now living in the area.
The mosque was made of white marble so that it wouldn't grow unbearably hot in the direct sunlight
After breakfast, we went to the 3rd largest mosque in the world, a brand-new, very impressive white marble structure. The tour involved a lot of ooohing and ahhhhing, as well as much touristy picture taking. Our guide was very informative, and Tahra (a practicing muslim), was able to supplement his speech with her own knowledge.
To go in the mosque, we were given burkas and donned the headscarves we brought with us
Everyone also had to remove their shoes
This is one of several wash rooms where those who wish to pray must follow a very specific cleansing ritual
The alcove allows the leader of the prayers to pray while facing Mecca, and his voice still projects back to the others praying
The alcove allows the leader of the prayers to pray while facing Mecca, and his voice still projects back to the others praying
The worlds largest chandelier. Actually quite unattractive compared to the other beautiful decorations.
World's largest hand made carpet. I took this picture by setting the camera down on the carpet and looking across, but you still can't really grasp the size of it.
The inlays on every pillar were cut from semi-precious stones and depict flowers and plants, but never people.
After lunch, we went to the Palace Hotel, which was once the palace of a sheik, but now converted into a very posh hotel. Walking in, you would think everything was covered in gold. And it pretty much was, actually.
A gold mosaic wall. If you look close, you can see a hidden door in the wall
Dancing in the fountains outside the Palace Hotel
No comments:
Post a Comment