Galuya Paka Mosque in Jhalakathi continues to stand as a symbol of ancient Bengali heritage.
Now more than just a place of prayer, the mosque has become a site of cultural, historical and research interest, drawing visitors alongside worshippers.
No precise record exists of when the mosque was constructed.
However, the architectural style visible on its walls reflects clear elements of Sultanate and Mughal design, indicating its considerable age.
Local residents say the structure was first discovered in the Bengali year 1122 by a man named Mahmud Jan Akand.
At that time, the mosque was reportedly covered by dense forest.
Villagers recount that large snakes were seen when the jungle was cleared.
One side of the mosque was opened after the snakes were asked to leave, and they are said to have moved away voluntarily.
Since then, five daily prayers have been offered at the mosque without interruption.
Because of the story surrounding its discovery, many locals also refer to it as the “Jinn Mosque”.
The single-domed mosque is located about one kilometre from the Bhandaria–Rajapur highway near the local market in Galuya union under Rajapur upazila of Jhalakathi district.
The structure bears features of Sultanate and Mughal architecture, with carved motifs and ornamental designs on its walls.
Built with solid bricks and lime-surki mortar, the mosque represents early Muslim culture and architectural heritage in the region.
Alongside serving devout Muslims for prayer, it has gradually emerged as a destination for tourism and academic research.
However, the mosque has lost much of its former splendour due to a lack of proper restoration.
Galuya Paka Mosque Imam Mawlana Obaidul Haque said the Department of Archaeology brought the mosque under preservation in 1999 as a religious and historical monument.
“After that, no significant restoration work has been carried out. Considering its history, heritage and religious importance, we urge the government to take proper steps for its renovation,” he said.
