Xian's Muslim Quarter

A visit to Xian's historic Muslim quarter is a highlight for any visit to the city. In the centre of the walled city you will find the old houses and narrow lanes of Xian's Muslim, or Hui, community. Islam has been the most enduring of all faiths in Xi'an. It was first introduced by Arab merchants during the Tang Dynasty, and flourished during the Yuan (1279-1368). The Great Mosque survived the Cultural Revolution virtually unscathed and remains an outstanding Chinese re-interpretation of an Islamic place of worship. It was founded in 742 A.D, according to a stone tablet in the mosque, but nothing from this Tang period survives. The present layout dates from the 14th century.

The Muslim Quarter is famous for its food, and there are an array of restaurants and street vendors to choose from. Classic dishes include roujiamo (marinated beef or lamb inside a fresh baked pitta), yangrou paomo (fresh pitta soaking in lamb stew), lamb kebabs, and Xi'an dumplings.