The Gobarau Minaret was constructed over 300 years ago – of baked clay and mud. It is a 50-foot or 15-meters minaret located at the centre of Katsina city. The tower has now become a symbol of the city. It is said to have been completed during the reign of Sarkin Katsina Muhammadu Korau (1398-1408 AD), the first Muslim king of Katsina. Over the centuries, it has been used as a central mosque, an Islamic centre for higher education, and a high tower for spotting invading armies.
The Gobarau minaret is believed to be one of the tallest buildings in Katsina State. The tower is also said to have been constructed 664 years ago. The minaret reflects the Timbuktu style architecture. Though it was built for religious purposes, the Gobarau was converted to a security tower and it is now a tourist attraction.
As it stands today, the famous Gobarau minaret (Hasumiyya) is part of the first Friday Mosques built in the ancient city of Katsina between (1348-1398). Originally, the height of the 664-year old minaret was said to have been over 122m (400f) before it was reduced to its present height of about 17.11 meters, with a base of approximately 83.36 square meters. The tower was said to have collapsed due to neglect and lack of maintenance before it was rebuilt by Emir Muhammad Dikko.
This ancient tower could be a beautiful sight for tourist.
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