Islam in Paris: visit of the Great Mosque of Paris

The entrance to the mosque is at minaret level. It is 26 metres high. The mosque was inaugurated in 1926. It was erected in recognition and tribute to the Muslim soldiers who fought alongside the French forces in the First World War.

The architecture of the mosque was largely inspired by the Moorish style, with elements borrowed from Hispano-Moorish art, including horseshoe arches, columns decorated with geometric motifs, carved wooden ceilings and colourful mosaics.

The Grand Patio is located just before the Prayer Room. For the construction of the Paris Mosque, many North African craftsmen and artists were called upon, bringing cultural authenticity to the building.

Visitors have to pay €3 to enter the Grand Patio. As the mosque is a place of worship, it is of course free for believers. The €3 is for Muslim charities.

The beautiful rubs shoulders with the less beautiful in the courtyard. The tour is short, there aren't many rooms open to the public.

The Prayer Room is not open to the public and is forbidden to non-Muslims.

The mosque also includes a hammam and a café-restaurant. The small terrace at the entrance is very pleasant and encourages you to have a mint tea.