In the 13th century Djenné was an important center of Islamic study, and there has been a mosque on this site ever since. Although it looks ancient, the present mosque was only completed in 1907, replacing the original which fell into disrepair during the 19th century. With a capacity of 3,000, it is the largest adobe building in the world, making use of local building techniques to combat heat and humidity, its thick walls helping to keep the interior prayer hall cool. Its qibla (prayer wall), dominated by three minarets, overlooks the marketplace, facing east toward Mecca.