Safa Shahouri Masjid is an ancient mosque located at
Ponda in
North Goa District. It is the most famous among the 26 mosques in
Goa, which were constructed by Sultan Adil Shahi of
Bijapur in 1560.
The masonry tank, built with the Meharab designs, situated in front of the mosque is the oldest part today. Once there was a garden with many fountains, all of which were destroyed during the Portuguese rule.
The mosque conforms to the Goan architecture, with the exception of the arches that indicate a distinct Bijapuri influence. It has a beautiful backdrop of wooded low hills, which rise in the background.
The two major festivals Id-ul-Fitar and Ud-Duha celebrated here amid much pomp and splendor draws a large number of devotees from far and near.
Safa Shahouri Masjid is now in ruins and belongs to the Archeological Survey of India.
Ponda is about 28 km south-east of Panaji and 17 km north-east of Margao.
