Masjid gede Kauman (Great Mosque of Kauman) is a historical mosque located west of Keraton North Square built as the main structure for the dissemination of Islamic teachings in the era of Kasultanan Yogyakarta. The cultural structure was built on Mei 29 1773 by an architect named Kyai Wiryokusumo, during the reign of Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I. The mosque is an integrated part of the Kasultanan Yogyakarta, as the center for Islamic  teachings in Yogyakarta, during that period. The existence of the Mosque is an omen that the Sultan besides being the leader of the government (Senopati Ing Ngalogo) and war, is also the delegation of Allah (Sayidin Panatagama Khalifatullah) in religious acts. Until now, Kasultanan Yogyakarta still maintains its status as an Islamic influence to local residents.

The village of Kauman Yogyakarta is known as the basis of Islamic Organization, Muhammadiyah, because in this village was that most know Islamic Organization in Indonesia was initiated, by an Islamic figure named Ahmad Dahlan. In addition, the area also has the largest Arabic race community in Yogyakarta.

As a Javanese Mosque, the building displays the trademark of having a triple roof with mustoko. It also has an entrance gate and a pair of Pagonan Building in the front yard which is used for Gamelan performance. The mosque is surrounded by high wall. There’s also a Pesucen (place to purify), Pajagan (place for guarding) and a cemetery where Ahmad Dahlan lays and Upon entering the mosque, visitors will find the porch of the mosque. The majestic architecture of the porch can be clearly seen from the carvings and design of the ceiling that shows a high value of traditional art. This porch is often used to host religious activities, and weddings.

Until today, the mosque still functions as a place for rituals, ceremonies, and religion enforcement especially for the residents of Kauman and officials of Kasultanan Yogyakarta.

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