Paris Grand Mosque Marks 100 Years as Symbol of Unity, Faith and Interfaith Dialogue

PARIS: The Grand Mosque of Paris has marked its 100th anniversary with commemorative prayers and celebrations, highlighting a century of religious heritage, national unity and interfaith dialogue while renewing calls for tolerance and greater social cohesion in France.

Built in 1926 to honor Muslim soldiers from France’s former colonies who fought and died for France during World War I, the mosque has become one of the country’s most prominent Islamic landmarks and an enduring symbol of the contributions of Muslim communities to French society.

Speaking on the occasion, Grand Mosque Rector Chems-eddine Hafiz described the institution as a symbol of France’s diversity and peaceful coexistence among different faiths. He also expressed concern over rising religious tensions, anti-Muslim sentiment and political polarization ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election, stressing the importance of recognizing Muslims as an integral part of the national community.

The centenary celebrations drew worshippers from across the Paris region, including French-born Muslims and families with roots in Algeria, Senegal and other former French colonies. Participants reflected on the mosque’s historical significance and its continuing role as a center of worship, cultural exchange and community engagement.

Located in Paris’ historic Latin Quarter, the Grand Mosque is also one of the city’s major cultural attractions. Inspired by Spain’s Alhambra Palace, the complex features an ornate prayer hall, a 33-meter-high minaret overlooking the Seine River, traditional gardens, a tea room and hammam, attracting both worshippers and international visitors.

The mosque also holds an important place in World War II history. According to its leadership, Imam Abdelkader Mesli helped shelter Jews and provided false identity documents to protect them during the Nazi occupation of France. His humanitarian efforts were rediscovered in 2015 through historical records preserved by his family.

France is home to the largest Muslim population in Western Europe, with Islam recognized as the country’s second-largest religion. Despite this, many Muslims continue to face discrimination and social prejudice, challenges that community leaders say have intensified following extremist attacks and increasingly polarized political debates over immigration and religious identity.

Marking the centenary, worshippers and volunteers emphasized messages of solidarity, mutual respect and religious tolerance, describing the Grand Mosque as both a spiritual sanctuary and a lasting symbol of Muslim heritage and inclusion within French society.