ABSTRACT
The Larabanga Mosque is the oldest known mosque in Ghana and West Africa. It is popularly referred to as the ‘Mecca of West Africa’ because of its rich historical and architectural values. The dimensions of the mosque are approximately 8 m by 8 m. Ayuba remained in Larabanga for the rest of his life, and when his remains were buried beneath a nearby baobab tree, the leaves were said to have special healing powers. The mosque houses a very old Koran which was delivered from heaven to an imam called Bramah, around 1650, after he had prayed hard for a Koran. Apart from their usual role as Friday prayer grounds, the ancient mosques also serve as places of pilgrimage to the Muslim communities in the country. On eventful days, many faithful worshippers gather at these mosques for prayers and listen to Koranic readings.
