Discovering the Grand Mosque of Paris
Published on 10 February 2020, dans Visit Paris
A few Metro stations from the Hôtel de l'Université, opposite the Museum of Natural History and the Jardin des Plantes, stands the Grand Mosque of Paris. More than 60,000 visitors come to see this impressive building every year. Discover this holy place, a vibrant testimony to Muslim art but also to religious tolerance and Islamic culture.
An architectural wonder
Built in the aftermath of the First World War, between 1922 and 1926, the Grand Mosque of Paris rises majestically above the streets of the Latin Quarter. It is the most famous and the oldest mosque in France. Surmounted by an impressive 33-metre-high minaret inspired by that of the Zitouna Mosque in Tunisia, this superbly designed building features beautiful, discreetly decorated white exterior facades. It owes its splendour to the talent of 450 artisans from North Africa.
Above all, of course, the building remains a place of worship, but it is also a monument dedicated to art, history and civilisation that welcomes visitors. Guides are available to answer all your questions.
A journey to the heart of the Islamic world
As soon as you step inside the entrance reserved for visitors, you find yourself in a ‘garden of delights’, an alluringly exotic oasis of greenery where marble pools, palm trees and wisteria mingle; a restful place reminiscent of the most beautiful Andalusian gardens.
Nearby, you will discover a large patio in the midst of which sits a majestic fountain. Notice the splendid multihued rosettes, the marble floor and the superb, richly worked yet profoundly tasteful colonnades. Also awaiting your discovery are the remarkable Andalusian-style library with its fine carven woodwork, and the conference room.
Complete your visit with a cup of mint tea, oriental pastries or couscous in the tearoom. And if you wish to prolong the experience of your visit, head to the hammam, where you can enjoy a massage or an exfoliation treatment administered by professionals.
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Crédit photo : © Paris Tourist Office - Photographe Daniel Thierry
Hotel de l'Université, a charming hotel at the heart of Saint-Germain des Prés