In the master plan for the development of the IAIN-UIN campus in 2002-2003, UIN Sunan Kalijaga initially did not plan to build a mosque. The government-funded focus was on constructing academic and administrative buildings while preserving the existing IAIN Sunan Kalijaga Mosque as a symbol of continuity across past, present, and future. However, plans changed dramatically when a devastating earthquake struck Yogyakarta in May 2006, severely damaging the mosque. Expert assessments from ITB, UGM, and UNAIR deemed it unsafe for use. For over four years, the campus lacked a proper mosque, relying on a temporary Multipurpose Hall.
The campus community yearned for a new mosque after the earthquake. Thus, from 2007 to 2010, UIN Sunan Kalijaga rebuilt the mosque using government funding over three consecutive years. The new mosque was strategically located amidst administrative buildings, faculties, laboratories, and other campus infrastructure. Its central position, facing the qibla (the direction of Mecca), made it a primary gathering point for all members of the academic community. Beyond its religious function, the mosque became a hub for academic and social interactions, where students, faculty, and staff from various faculties could share experiences and knowledge.
The UIN Sunan Kalijaga Mosque boasts several facilities, including a university canteen, a comfortable terrace, a Convention Hall accommodating 500 people, a fountain, and an observatory. Its architectural design prioritizes functionality, ensuring ease of worship and social interaction for the campus community.
Architecturally, the mosque embodies three core values: Islamicity, locality, and modernity. Islamicity is evident in its precise qibla orientation, Arabic calligraphy adorning the mosque, and simple design harmonizing with the surrounding environment. The locality is reflected in the Javanese-style roof (limasan), which honors the local culture and adapts to changing needs. Modernity manifests through ecological awareness, social inclusivity, and economic efficiency. The wudu (ablution) water is collected in a Ground Reservoir for irrigating plants, and the mosque is naturally ventilated without air conditioning. It is also accessible to people with disabilities, the elderly, and those with obesity.
The UIN Sunan Kalijaga Mosque serves not only as a place of worship but also as a “Laboratorium Agama” (Religious Laboratory)—a space for scientific development and social activities. It aims to be an inclusive center for shared learning. In addition to regular prayers like the five daily salah and Friday congregational prayers, the mosque plays a role in Islamic outreach and community development within the UIN Sunan Kalijaga environment.
Furthermore, the mosque contributes to social initiatives such as collecting and distributing zakat (charitable almsgiving), infaq (voluntary contributions), and sadaqah (charitable donations). Collaborations with charitable organizations will extend the mosque’s benefits to both the academic community and the wider public.
To ensure effective operations, the Laboratorium Agama/Mosque Sunan Kalijaga follows a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Thus, it serves not only as a place of worship but also as a center for education, social development, and community empowerment