How Many Mosques Are There in Rome?

By Robert Palmer

There is a common misconception that Rome, the capital city of Italy, does not have any mosques. However, this is not entirely true.

While it is true that the majority of religious buildings in Rome are churches, there are indeed a few mosques scattered throughout the city. In this article, we will explore how many mosques there are in Rome and their significance to the Muslim community.

The Great Mosque of Rome

The most well-known and significant mosque in Rome is the Great Mosque of Rome, also known as the Mosque of Rome or Moschea di Roma in Italian. Located in the Parioli neighborhood, this mosque stands as a symbol of Islamic presence in the city.

Significance:

The construction of the Great Mosque was initiated by the former King of Saudi Arabia, Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and it was officially inaugurated in 1995. The mosque was designed by Paolo Portoghesi and Sami Mousawi and represents a fusion of traditional Islamic and Italian architectural styles.

Features:

  • It has a striking minaret that stands at a height of 43 meters.
  • The main prayer hall can accommodate around 2,500 worshippers at a time.
  • Ablution facilities are available for ritual washing before prayers.

Other Mosques in Rome

In addition to the Great Mosque of Rome, there are several smaller mosques spread across different neighborhoods. While these may not be as prominent as the Great Mosque, they are important community centers for Muslims living in Rome.

Moschea di via della Magliana

This mosque is located in Via della Magliana and serves the Muslim community living in the surrounding area. It provides a place of worship and a space for community events and gatherings.

Moschea di viale Jenner

The Mosque of Viale Jenner is situated in the Quartiere Africano neighborhood. It serves as a spiritual and cultural center for Muslims living in the area.

Moschea di via Cristoforo Colombo

This mosque, located on Via Cristoforo Colombo, is another important place of worship for the Muslim community in Rome.

Conclusion

While Rome may not have as many mosques as some other cities, it does have several places of worship that cater to the needs of the Muslim community. The Great Mosque of Rome, along with other smaller mosques, play a significant role in providing a sense of belonging and spiritual connection for Muslims residing in Rome.

It is important to remember that religious diversity exists even in cities where one religion may dominate. These mosques serve as symbols of harmony and coexistence between different faiths within the multicultural fabric of Rome.