Nestled in the peaceful village of Negash, in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, stands one of the most sacred Islamic landmarks in Africa — the Negash Mosque. This mosque is not only a beautiful structure of spiritual importance but also a powerful symbol of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and historical unity between Christians and Muslims in Ethiopia.
Negash Mosque: The Birthplace of Islam in Africa
Negash is recognized as the first Muslim settlement in Africa, dating back to the 7th century. When early followers of the Prophet Muhammad faced persecution in Mecca, he advised them to seek refuge in Abyssinia (ancient Ethiopia) under the rule of the just Christian King, Negus (Al-Najashi). The king welcomed the Muslims with protection and respect — a profound act of hospitality that laid the foundation for peaceful interfaith relations.
The mosque is believed to be built on the site where these first Muslim refugees settled, and the village of Negash has since been a spiritual home for Ethiopian Muslims. The current structure, with its elegant white domes and minaret, was restored in recent years, preserving both its religious function and its historical legacy.
Surrounded by rolling hills and traditional villages, the Negash Mosque stands as a symbol of Ethiopia’s role in early Islamic history and its unique heritage of religious tolerance. Pilgrims and visitors alike come to pay their respects and experience the tranquility of this sacred place.
With Visit Ethiopia 4K, you can explore the timeless beauty and deep history of the Negash Mosque in stunning detail — walking the same grounds where faith, compassion, and humanity once came together to shape a better world.