South Africa Has the Largest Mosque in the Southern Hemisphere

The Nizamiye Turkish Mosque is the brainchild of Ali Katircioglu, better known as “Uncle Ali,” a Turkish businessman who singlehandedly funded the R210 million mosque or about R1.3 billion for the entire complex.  You see him in the following photo with us.  He was very kind to us and invited us for “tea” in his special room where he entertains the world’s presidents.  We declined the tea but enjoyed visiting in the VIP room.  The guide that took us through the tour of the ornate complex said that some visitors appear somewhat hostile.  He said that when he approached us, he felt a great peace and knew that he would have a good experience with us.  It was an enriching time for all of us.