Then

The architectural character of the Great Omari Mosque represents a sophisticated synthesis of symbolic meaning and practical design. Carefully balanced proportions and the interplay of solid and void across the mosque’s fabric foster both spiritual reflection and communal engagement (Al-Mubayyid, 1995). Its façades are rhythmically articulated with recessed panels, arched apertures, and decorative friezes, while fine ornamentation—including carved inscriptions and geometric motifs—demonstrates the layered craftsmanship of successive Islamic periods, particularly the Mamluk and Ayyubid eras (Shehada, 2020). The mosque follows a traditional hypostyle plan with a strong axial emphasis toward the qibla and includes side aisles and ablution zones that facilitate religious rituals (Britannica, n.d.).

Constructed predominantly from kurkar, a coastal Palestinian sandstone shaped into ashlar blocks, the mosque draws deeply from local materials (Al-Mubayyid, 1995). The minaret, a focal architectural element, showcases Mamluk style through its square base and octagonal shaft, enhanced with niches and muqarnas. The original timber-and-tile upper section typified Levantine minaret construction (Shehada, 2020), reflecting the Mamluks’ capacity to blend inherited forms with expressions of their own authority. Internally, the prayer hall is supported by 38 marble columns—many repurposed Roman and Byzantine spolia—carrying groin vaults and pointed arches, reinforcing both verticality and historical continuity (Mosques of the World, n.d.).

Clerestory windows and perforated stone details support ventilation and daylighting strategies, creating a serene interior atmosphere suited to the Mediterranean environment (Middle East Eye, 2023). Underscoring the mosque’s role as both spiritual sanctuary and civic anchor (Shehada, 2020). This seamless integration of sacred and public realms also speaks to the mosque’s place within Gaza’s broader socio-economic fabric.

The mosque also once housed a distinguished library founded during the reign of Mamluk Sultan Baybars. Although it has faced multiple cycles of destruction and restoration, the library was at one time home to thousands of manuscripts, establishing the mosque as one of Gaza’s earliest centres of learning (Arab News, 2019). Today, both its architecture and layered functions make the Great Omari Mosque a compelling testament to Gaza’s enduring urban, cultural, and intellectual heritage (Mosques of the World, n.d.; Al-Aqsa University, n.d.).

Now

During the 20^th and 21^st centuries, the Great Omari Mosque in Gaza City has endured significant challenges, reflecting the broader historical and political upheavals of the region.

In the early 20^th century, the mosque suffered considerable damage during World War I when British artillery targeted an Ottoman arms depot housed within its premises. This assault led to the destruction of much of the mosque’s structure, including its renowned library (Irish Times, 2024). Subsequent restoration efforts in the 1920s, overseen by the Supreme Muslim Council, aimed to rebuild the mosque using surviving elements from its diverse historical phases, such as remnants from the Crusader church and Mamluk architecture (Irish Times, 2024). The mosque was largely ruined during the Second World War, although the Supreme Islamic Council renovated it in 1924 (Sadeq M, 2025)

Throughout the mid-20^th century, the mosque continued to serve as a central place of worship and community gathering. However, the region’s political instability, particularly following the 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict and the 1967 Six-Day War, posed challenges to the preservation and maintenance of the mosque (Al-Mubayyid, 1995). Despite these difficulties, the mosque remained a symbol of resilience and continuity for the local population.

The 21^st century brought renewed adversity. During an ongoing intense war, on 8^th December 2023, an airstrike severely damaged the Great Omari Mosque. It led to the collapse of significant portions of the structure, including its iconic Mamluk-era minaret, and resulted in the loss of invaluable historical and religious artefacts (The Art Newspaper, 2025). As of June 2025 when undertaking this moddeling, the war in Gaza continues. In the aftermath of severe damage to the mosque, both local and international heritage organisations expressed deep concern over the destruction of such a vital cultural and religious site. Efforts have been made to assess the damage and explore possibilities for restoration, though the ongoing war and political complexities in the region continue to pose significant obstacles (The Art Newspaper, 2025).