Great Mosque of Lyon, mosque in Lyon, France
The Great Mosque of Lyon is a place of prayer opened in 1994 that combines traditional Islamic design with modern architecture. The building features a 25-meter minaret, a large dome, a spacious prayer hall, a library, a school, and can hold about 1000 people, with room for thousands more in gardens and basement areas on special occasions.
The mosque was built in the early 1990s with support from King Fahd of Saudi Arabia and several other Muslim countries, and officially opened in September 1994. The French government helped fund the project to recognize the sacrifices made by Muslim soldiers in past wars, especially during the First World War.
The name refers to its location in Lyon and its role as a place of prayer for the local Muslim community. The interior displays Persian and North African patterns that visitors see daily, reflecting the religious identity of the people who gather here.
The mosque is located on the eastern edge of Lyon and is easy to reach by public transport, with accessibility for people with mobility needs. It is best to check ahead to find out visiting hours and whether any special events are happening during your visit.
A striking detail is that the ceiling is decorated with a large chandelier and the edges of the dome are inscribed with passages from the Quran in gold lettering. These elaborate decorations reveal the artistic craftsmanship and religious significance embedded in every part of the building.
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