Great Mosque of Strasbourg
On the banks of the Ill in the Heyritz district, south of the Grande Île, the Great Mosque of Strasbourg was inaugurated in 2012. Designed by the Italian architect Paolo Portoghesi, it is recognisable by its 24-metre-high dome and lines that play with water and light. A striking contemporary building to take in on a walk along the quays.
From a converted factory to a purpose-built mosque
From 1982, worshippers met in a prayer hall set up in a former factory. The plan for a large mosque took shape in the early 2000s: the foundation stone was laid on 29 October 2004 by the then mayor, Fabienne Keller. The dome was put in place in November 2009, the building opened for worship on 1 August 2011 and the official inauguration took place on 27 September 2012, replacing the temporary hall after three decades.
Paolo Portoghesi's signature
The design by Paolo Portoghesi, who had already designed the Great Mosque of Rome, won out over entries from Zaha Hadid, Mario Botta, Jean-Michel Wilmotte and Gaston Valente. Its dome rises 24 metres and spans 17 metres. The architect conceived a building open to its setting, its curving volumes in conversation with the river close by. From the opposite quays, the dome reflected in the Ill makes for one of the best views of the building.
The Heyritz, between river and city
The mosque stands on Rue Averroès, in the Heyritz district, on the bank of the Ill south of the Grande Île. Long on the edge of things, the area has changed with the redevelopment of its riverbanks, now good for walking and cycling. From Petite France, simply follow the water south to reach it. It is a chance to see a more contemporary side of Strasbourg, a stone's throw from the half-timbered houses of the centre.
Visiting with respect
The mosque is first and foremost a place of prayer used every day. The architecture can be fully enjoyed from outside and from the nearby riverbanks. To go in, check visiting arrangements with the mosque beforehand, avoid prayer times, especially Friday midday, and dress modestly; shoes come off in the prayer hall. It rounds off nicely a tour of Strasbourg's places of worship, from the cathedral to the Protestant churches.
Practical information
Address: 6 Rue Averroès, 67100 Strasbourg
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Great Mosque of Strasbourg?
At 6 Rue Averroès, in the Heyritz district on the bank of the Ill, just south of the Grande Île. You can walk there from Petite France along the river.
Who designed the mosque?
The Italian architect Paolo Portoghesi, whose design was chosen over those of Zaha Hadid, Mario Botta and Jean-Michel Wilmotte among others. Its dome is 24 metres high and 17 metres in diameter.
Can visitors go inside the mosque?
It is an active place of worship, so check visiting arrangements directly with the mosque, come outside prayer times and dress respectfully. The exterior and riverbanks are open to all.
What is there to see nearby?
Follow the Ill north-west to reach the Vauban Dam, the Ponts Couverts and Petite France, then the heart of the Grande Île. The Heyritz riverbanks are pleasant on foot or by bike.
