Sunan Ampel Mosque & Arab Quarter
Masjid Agung Sunan Ampel
A mosque and cemetery founded by Sunan Ampel, one of the Nine Saints who spread Islam across Java. The nearby Arab Quarter’s alleys have a distinctly Middle Eastern flavour.
Ampel Mosque was first built in 1421 under the direction of Sunan Ampel, one of the Nine Saints (Wali Songo) who brought Islam to Java. His tomb lies behind the mosque and draws pilgrims from across Indonesia all year round. The surrounding Arab Quarter (Kampung Arab) is a narrow, covered market lane selling dates, perfume, prayer rugs, headscarves and Arabic sweets. Small shops serve mutton curry and grilled lamb skewers. Visitors should wear long sleeves and long trousers. Women must wear a headscarf, which can be borrowed at the entrance, and should avoid entering during prayer times.
Opening hours
All day (avoid visiting during services)
Nearby sights
- Pasar Pabean
- Surabaya Chinatown (Kya-Kya)
- Kota Lama Surabaya & Jembatan Merah
- House of Sampoerna
- Boen Bio Temple
- Church of the Birth of Our Lady (Kepanjen Church)
- Heroes Monument Surabaya
- Kampung Lawas Maspati