Grand Mosque of Paris – What to Know For a Visit
If you’re looking for a unique place in Paris, away from the typical French landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe, the Grand Mosque of Paris is just right for you.
The impressive building with its minaret and the patio surrounded by sculpted arcades is among the largest mosques in France.
Despite this fact, the mosque is still among the hidden gems in Paris. Therefore, it’s not as crowded as many of the city’s other major sights.
Initially, the mosque wasn’t part of my itinerary either. Since I had some spare time and was nearby I decided to pay a short visit.
In this blog post, I compiled everything you need to know for your visit to the Grand Mosque of Paris, including opening times, entrance fees, what to see, and other useful information.
So, are you ready to discover one of the more extraordinary places in Paris?
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History of The Grand Mosque of Paris
The history of the Grand Mosque of Paris dates back to the 1920s when the country experienced a cultural shift that embraced artistic and intellectual freedom.
The mosque was built as a representation of the Islamic heritage within the multicultural city of Paris.
With its distinctive minaret, intricate mosaics, and peaceful courtyards, the Grand Mosque quickly became an important religious and cultural center.
Over the years, it has served as a place of worship and community for the Muslim population in Paris, while also fostering dialogue and understanding between different faiths.
Today, the Grand Mosque of Paris stands as a symbol of unity, showcasing the coexistence of diverse cultures within the city.
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How to Reach The Mosque
Reaching the Grand Mosque of Paris is a very easy process. Located in the 5th arrondissement, it can be accessed by various means of transportation.
If you prefer using the metro, you can take Line 7 and get off at the “Place Monge” station, which is just a short walk away from the mosque.
Alternatively, bus lines 67 and 89 have stops nearby. For those who enjoy exploring on foot, the Grand Mosque is within walking distance of popular landmarks such as the Jardin des Plantes and the Panthéon.
Opening Times & Entry Fees
Generally, the mosque is open every day (except Fridays and Islamic holidays) from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, giving you enough time to explore its beauty and tranquility.
However, it’s important to note that the mosque may have specific prayer times during which access to certain areas might be limited.
To be able to explore its architectural marvels, courtyards, and serene ambiance, you need to pay a small entrance fee of €3 at the counter. You can use cash or a bank card.
Dress Code
When visiting the Grand Mosque of Paris, make sure to choose a modest dress code out of consideration for the religious and cultural context.
In contrast to other, mainly Muslim countries, it’s not necessary for women to fully cover their hair and arms. However, they are very strict about covering your shoulders and knees. This applies to both, men and women.
Don’t worry if you’re not 100% sure of your chosen clothing. The staff at the entrance will make you aware if you are not dressed appropriately and you can borrow a scarf to cover yourself.
What to See at The Grand Mosque of Paris
The Grand Mosque of Paris is truly an amazing place that showcases a blend of stunning architecture and cultural treasures.
Right after you enter, you’ll be enveloped by a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by a variety of attractions to explore.
One of the main highlights is the prayer hall, a spacious and beautifully adorned area. Inside, you’ll find intricate decorations and exquisite details, with a grand chandelier hanging above.
The prayer hall also features a meticulously crafted mihrab, a prayer niche that indicates the direction of Mecca.
Stepping outside, you’ll discover the mosque’s courtyard and garden (my favorite parts), providing a serene oasis in the midst of the bustling city.
The courtyard boasts lush greenery, elegant fountains, and ornate tilework, creating a peaceful environment for contemplation and relaxation.
Also, don’t miss the opportunity to admire the mosque’s iconic 33-meter-high minaret.
Standing tall and majestic, the minaret is an architectural marvel with intricate designs and embellishments, adding to the mosque’s allure.
Adjacent to the mosque, you’ll find the Islamic Cultural Center, which houses a library filled with books on Islamic art, history, and spirituality.
It serves as a valuable resource and a hub for educational and cultural activities that promote understanding and dialogue.
After exploring the mosque, take some time to visit the tea room, where you can indulge in Moroccan tea, sweets, and delicacies. It’s a delightful spot to unwind and immerse yourself in the flavors and hospitality of North African traditions.
Occasionally, the mosque also hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase Islamic art, calligraphy, and cultural artifacts. These exhibitions offer a deeper insight into the richness and diversity of Islamic heritage.
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Other Useful Information
As a place of worship, it’s important to maintain respectful behavior while visiting the mosque. This includes speaking softly, avoiding disruptive behavior, and refraining from taking photographs in sensitive areas unless permitted.
If you want, you can also join a guided tour that provides deeper insights into its architecture, history, and cultural significance.
Moreover, the mosque features a souvenir shop where you can find Islamic literature, artwork, calligraphy, and other unique items. It’s a great place to buy lovely gifts to remember your visit.
Final Thoughts
All in all, I absolutely enjoyed my time at the Grand Mosque of Paris a lot. It’s a really gorgeous, peaceful place to escape the city noise for a while and immerse yourself in a completely different world.
Trust me, you will totally forget that you are actually in a big European city!
It also reminded me a lot of my previous trip to Morocco where I visited the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and my trip to the UAE where I got to admire the impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
For me, the Grand Mosque is definitely a sight that needs to be part of every Paris itinerary!
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I haven’t heard enough about this! I’m so sad that I missed it all 3 times I was in Paris. I’m definitely adding it to my list for the next time I’m there. Thank you so much!!
Yes it’s still not that touristy but such a wonderful place to see!
I had wanted to visit the hammam here when I was in Paris last summer but I ran out of time! I guess I’ll have to go back! 🧖🏻♀️
Guess so too!
I’ve never heard of this in Paris, but it’s quite stunning! Thanks for all the practical information about visiting. Would love to check it out!
It’s such a stunning place!