Masjid al-Qiblatayn

Zeila, Awdal Region, Somalia

---

Masjid al-Qiblatayn in Zeila, located in the Awdal Region of Somalia, is an ancient mosque believed to date back to the 7th century CE, shortly after early Muslim migrants fled to Abyssinia. Its name means "Mosque of the Two Qiblas," referring to the two prayer niches (mihrabs) it once had, one oriented toward Mecca and the other toward Jerusalem, reflecting early Islamic prayer direction changes.

The mosque is largely in ruins today, with only limited remnants such as an arch, windows, and columns still standing. It contains the tomb of Sheikh Babu Dena and highlights the early spread of Islam into the Horn of Africa. The site is historically significant as one of the oldest mosques in Africa and symbolizes the Islamic heritage in the region.