What is a cami?

A cami (often spelled "mosque" in English) is a place of worship for followers of Islam. It serves as a central gathering place for prayer, community events, and religious education. Here's some information:

• Purpose: The primary purpose of a cami is for salat, the obligatory prayers performed five times a day.

• Architecture: Cami architecture varies greatly depending on the region and historical period. Common features include a mihrab (a niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca), a minbar (a pulpit from which the imam delivers sermons), a minaret (a tower from which the call to prayer is announced), and a prayer hall (musalla).

• Functions: Besides prayer, camis often host other activities such as religious%20education for children and adults, community%20gatherings, charitable%20activities, and funeral%20services.

• Cleanliness: Cleanliness is essential in a cami. Worshippers perform wudu (ablution) before prayer to purify themselves.

• Respect: Visitors to a cami, regardless of their faith, should dress modestly and behave respectfully. Shoes are typically removed before entering the prayer hall.