The Grand Mosque of Paris is marking its 100th anniversary, a century after its construction to commemorate Muslim soldiers from French colonies who fought for France in World War I. Today, the mosque stands as a significant landmark in Paris's Latin Quarter and a focal point for discussions on the experience of Muslims in contemporary France.
Chems-eddine Hafiz, the rector of the Grand Mosque, views the institution as a symbol of interfaith dialogue and France's diversity. However, he expressed concern over religious tensions in the country, which he links to conflicts in the Middle East and the heated political climate surrounding the upcoming presidential election.
"It’s the responsibility of everyone to see Muslims as a part of the national community,'' Hafiz told The Associated Press. He highlighted that attendees at Friday's centenary prayers came from various regions around Paris, including those born in France and immigrants from Algeria, Senegal, and other nations, many tracing their ancestry to France's former colonial empire.
The mosque, inspired by Spain's Alhambra, features a 33-meter (108-foot) minaret overlooking the Seine River. Its ornate prayer room is noted as a significant attraction by the Paris City Hall's tourism website. Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the mosque includes a popular tea room and hammam.
Hafiz recounted that French authorities initially intended the mosque to honor the sacrifices of Muslim soldiers in World War I. He cited a statement by then-French President Gaston Doumergue upon the mosque's construction, emphasizing that France's diversity strengthens its national community. Hafiz believes this message remains consistent, but attitudes have shifted, leading to ongoing anti-Muslim incidents and a frequent misunderstanding of Islam.
Islam is the second-largest religion in France, which has the largest Muslim population in Western Europe. Despite this, French Muslims often face discrimination and stigma, which has been exacerbated by a series of deadly Islamic extremist attacks in France over the last decade. The current political landscape, with campaigns dominated by figures like Marine Le Pen and her far-right National Rally party, which frequently targets Islam and immigration, further contributes to these tensions.
Fatma Chouchane, a mosque volunteer, spoke out against restrictions on women wearing headscarves in French schools and some workplaces, appealing for religious freedom. Nonetheless, like other worshippers, she focused on themes of tolerance and the mosque's anniversary celebration, describing it as "the Paris museum for Muslims" and a call for solidarity.
Ibrahima Seye, who arrived in France from Senegal, noted the mosque as one of his first stops. He described it as a welcoming place for the Muslim community and a popular site for tourists, reflecting its broader role in the city.