The Great Mosque in Xian is one of the oldest, largest and best-preserved Islamic mosques in China and is located in the Shaanxi (Shensi) province in the central part of Mainland China.

Great Mosque of Xian China

According to historical records engraved on a stone tablet inside, this mosque was built in 742 during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). The mosque was renovated in later periods, especially during the reign of Emperor Hongwu of the Ming Dynasty. The entirely Chinese construction and architectural style shows how Muslims adapted to various cultures.

Tradition says the Great Mosque was founded by the naval admiral Cheng Ho, son of a prestigious Muslim family who became famous for leading some of the largest sea expeditions of the time reaching all the way to North America. Muslims played an important role in the unification of China during the Yuan and Ming Dynasties.

source : http://www.islamicity.com