Sunan Giri Mosque Stands as Historic Giri Kedaton Landmark

RRI.CO.ID, Gresik - Masjid Besar Ainul Yaqin Sunan Giri, or Sunan Giri Mosque, preserves the legacy of Sunan Giri and the historic Giri Kedaton site. The mosque stands on Giri Hill, Gresik, East Java, Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

Originally called Masjid Jamik Sunan Giri, the mosque was built by Sunan Giri, one of Java's Wali Songo. It remains a place of worship and a pilgrimage destination visited by Muslims from Indonesia and abroad.

Historical records state that Sunan Giri built the mosque in 1399 Saka, corresponding to 1476. The mosque was closely connected to his efforts to spread Islam and develop Giri as a center of religious learning.

Sunan Giri was known by several names, including Muhammad Ainul Yaqin, Raden Paku, and Raden Samudra. He was also known as Prabu Satmata, a title associated with his leadership among the Wali Songo.

The mosque has undergone several stages of development throughout its history. Records mention its relocation to Giri Hill in 1544, followed by expansions and repairs in 1857, 1950, 1957, and 1979.

The latest major renovation was completed in 1982, while maintenance continues to preserve the site's historical character. The mosque remains active for daily prayers, Friday prayers, and religious activities during important Islamic months.

The mosque complex also contains the tomb of Sunan Giri and around 300 graves. Several graves belong to his family, while the nearby tomb complex of Sunan Prapen reflects the site's importance to Giri Kedaton's royal history.

Giri Kedaton was established by Sunan Giri and developed as a center for Islamic education and community activities. The site later became a burial complex for members of Sunan Giri's royal family and descendants.

The mosque retains a distinctive three-tiered pyramidal roof commonly found in historic Javanese mosques. Its location and connection with Giri Kedaton make it an important destination for visitors exploring Indonesia's early Islamic history.

Today, Masjid Besar Ainul Yaqin Sunan Giri continues to serve worshippers and pilgrims. Its preservation keeps alive the historical connection between Sunan Giri, Giri Kedaton, and the development of Islam in Java.