Grand Mosque of Paris Celebrates 100 Years

The Grand Mosque of Paris, a landmark of Islamic culture in the heart of the city, marked the centennial of its inauguration on 2 November 2026. The mosque, originally opened in 1926 to honor the Muslim soldiers who fought for France during the First World War, has grown into a major religious, educational and cultural center over the past century. The centenary celebrations were led by the mosque’s administration in partnership with the French Ministry of Culture and the Paris City Council, reflecting the building’s status as a national monument.

The festivities included a series of events that highlighted the mosque’s historical and contemporary roles. A special commemorative plaque was unveiled by the mayor of Paris, and a symposium on interfaith dialogue attracted scholars, religious leaders and policymakers from across Europe. The mosque’s famed library and the adjoining “Maison du Souvenir” hosted exhibitions of wartime artifacts and photographs, while a series of free lectures and guided tours were offered to the public. In addition, the mosque’s renowned culinary program opened its doors to visitors, showcasing the traditional dishes that have been served at the mosque’s restaurant since its inception.

As the city reflected on a century of coexistence, the Grand Mosque’s anniversary underscored its continuing mission to promote understanding and cultural exchange. The event concluded with a communal prayer and a call for renewed commitment to peace and mutual respect, reaffirming the mosque’s place as a symbol of France’s diverse heritage and its enduring ties to the Muslim community.