Just as its name implies, the Mulim Quarter is the hub of the Muslim community in Xi’an City, Shaanxi Province. Located to the north of the West Street, the quarter covers several blocks, and inhabited by over 20,000 Muslims. There are about ten mosques in this area, among which the Great Mosque in the Huajue Lane is the most famous and popular one.
Muslim Street has a long history. It is said that in old days, foreign diplomatic envoys and merchants lived here. They married and had children and then the population gradually increased. Today, most of the inhabitants here are the descendants of those immigrants. All the Muslims here are the pious and devout followers of Islam so they form a tight knit community, which maintains its own culture and traditions in such a modern society.
Muslim Quarter features various Muslim foods and a big souvenir market, which is 500 meters (about 547 yards) in length from south to north, the street is paved with dark colored stone. The buildings on both sides of the street are modeled on the styles of both the Ming (1368-1644) and the Qing Dynasties (1644-1911). Some of the constructions are restaurants while others are stores. There is one thing in common: the owners are all Muslims. There are also a great many other snacks to be found along this street, such as preserved meat, casserole, various noodles, and so on. They are waiting for you to enjoy.