From the King Abdullah Mosque in Amman. In Jordan, Muslims make up over 90% of the population.

Unlike some Muslim countries, women in Jordan are not required to wear a hijab or a burkha. Every mosque has different rules when it comes to non-Muslim visitors. Both men and women visitors are welcome at the King Abdullah Mosque as long as they dress respectfully. So, Ilana and I covered our heads before entering.

When visiting Muslim countries, the Adhan, or call to prayer, is heard 5 times a day. The call to prayer is sung at dawn, at midday, in the middle of the afternoon, just after sunset, and at night. The chant informs all Muslims that it is time to pray.

At the King Abdullah Mosque, Adam and Ben climbed one of the minarets. At the top, they saw the big speakers that broadcast the call to prayer. Before electricity and speakers, someone would need to climb to the top of the minaret to recite the call to prayer 5 times each day.

While most Jordanians pray during the call to prayer, anyone can come to a mosque and pray whenever they please. The heart of the mosque is a large open area with a carpeted floor. People pray in the direction of Mecca. The walls are decorated but otherwise the space is almost completely empty.

The exterior of the mosque is covered in white stone and surrounding the main building is a courtyard with verses from the Qur'an written in mosaic tile.

One last thing to add: We are visiting Jordan during Ramadan. Our team member, Ilana, decided to try fasting for Ramadan to help her gain a better understanding of Islam. Her experience has made me very interested in learning more about Islam.

Next: Head to the kitchen.

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