Moslem Street – A historical street

Regarded as a historical street, the Moslim Street is reputed as one of the premier attractions in Xian. Situated westwards from the Bell Tower and the city centre, the residential area of Xian Muslims can be seen pass the Drum Tower. The Moslem Street has a total of ten mosques, varying from a range of sizes. Lying on this same block is a countless number of houses belonging to Hui people, who live their lives according to religious traditions, customs and original habits. An epicentre of Xi’an’s Muslim community, the street is full of life, known for its vibrant and energetic nature.
Among the attractions in the street, few of the most popular sites are the Great Mosque and Xian Old City God’s Temple, one of the three main Old City God’s Temples in China. The Great Mosque, according to history is deemed as the earliest mosque in China, which can be seen today. Even though, the majority of the population are Muslims, the Moslim Street is known for its multi-ethnic groups, having a diversified cultural atmosphere.
The Moslem Street boasts a unique historical background, dating back to the Han and Tang Dynasties. According to history, many scholars, legates and businessmen settled in the area during the imperial eras. The population of the region doubled rapidly, mainly due to Silk Road, to where more and more people from Western China migrated, bringing their own unique traditions and religious beliefs. As this street became a large community for the Hui people and Muslims, it was aptly named "Muslim Street".
Lined with lush trees, the street is paved with black stones, where the main street reaches about 500 metres. There are many lanes that connect to the main street, including Dapiyuan Lane, Huajue Lane and Xiyangshi Lane. A majority of the buildings along the street depict the architectural designs of the Qing and Ming Dynasties. In addition, there are many stores run by the Hui people, selling a myriad of crafts and wares.
Treating the travellers to authentic Islamic and international cuisine is the many restaurants, offering a profound cultural atmosphere. Among the other mouth-watering dishes is the Yang Rou Pao Mo which is crumbled unleavened bread soaked in mutton stew, boiled dumpling, steamed dumpling, roast beef, mutton, picked vegetable fried with rice and all kinds of pastry. In addition, there are a number of sesame oil workshops, open-fronted halal butchers and street vendors, hawking all types of delicacies. Bustling with excitement, many travellers come here during the night to indulge in the delectable roast meat dishes. Magnificently lit up, the street is undeniably one of the main attractions when visiting Xian.
For the international traveller in search of a Xi’an apartment, an ideal accommodation would be Citadines Gaoxin Xi'an. Guests staying in such an accommodation in Xi’an will be able to travel to Xi’an’s major attractions easily as it is located in close proximity to the city centre, surrounded by an array of entertainment and shopping options.