Centrally located amidst the famous attractions of Paris lies a quiet oasis, the Grand Mosque of Paris.
This magnificent mosque in the 5th arrondissement offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
In this guide, I’ll share how to visit the mosque including its surprising yet inspiring story history (how it saved thousands of people in WW2).
If you’re in a rush to visit the mosque, here are the important details you need to know:
Can You Enter the Grand Mosque Paris? Yes!
Location: 2bis Pl. du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris, France
Opening Hours: 9 a.m. -6 p.m. (7 p.m. in Summer) every day except Friday
Entrance Fee: €3 per person | €2 per person for groups of 10 or more
Dress Code: Knees and shoulders should covered | Covers are available at the entrance
Largest Mosque in France
The Grand Mosque of Paris (Grande Mosquée de Paris, also known as the Great Mosque of Paris) is the biggest mosque in France located in the 5th arrondissement.
It serves as a hub for the Muslim community and a place of cultural exchange.
Architecture and Design
The Grand Mosque Paris is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its stunning design immediately transports you to another world.
It features a beautiful blending of Moorish and Hispano-Moresque (Mudéjar style) styles.
I was captivated by the intricate tilework, elegant archways, and impressive minaret. The best part is you can appreciate all these in silence.
The Entrance
The entrance itself is a work of art, with its intricately decorated doors and graceful arches. You’ll immediately notice the iconic symbol – the star and crescent of the Muslim faith.
The star with five points represents the Five Pillars of Islam, while the crescent moon and star symbolize the magnificence of the creator.
The Courtyard
After the entrance, you’ll step into a courtyard adorned with colorful geometric-patterned mosaics.
It was my first time seeing a mosque courtyard and I was in awe of how elegant and beautiful it is. Spoler alert: it’s just the beginning.
The Prayer Room
The heart of every mosque is its prayer room where worshippers gather for their daily prayers.
The prayer room is reserved for worshippers but you can silently take a peek from the outside.
The room is both grand and serene. Inside, I also saw crafted stucco and vibrant stained glass windows.
Grand Mosque Paris Prayer Times
If you want to participate in the daily prayers, you can check the updated and current prayer times for the Grand Mosque of Paris here.
The Minaret
Another architectural highlight is the mosque’s minaret, with its distinctive green tiles.
Standing at 33 meters, this tall minaret was inspired by the Al-Zaytuna Mosque in Tunisia.
While you might not be able to climb it, simply gazing at its graceful structure is a treat for the eyes.
The Central Garden and the Fountain
My favorite spot (and many visitors alike) is its central garden. Here, you can stroll among the fragrant orange trees, palm trees, and cypresses. It’s absolutely relaxing!
And if you’re visiting during spring (around late April), you will see beautiful wisteria vines creating a picturesque canopy.
In the middle of the garden, you’ll hear the soothing sound of gorgeous pink marble fountains. Let the peaceful atmosphere wash over you.
This place reminds me of retreat centers I usually attend with way less cost.
It’s a perfect spot for meditation, contemplation, or taking a seat to pause from your Paris itinerary.
Wisteria at the Grand Mosque of Paris
As mentioned earlier, this Paris Mosque is one of the best places in Paris to admire Wisteria.
The tiled central courtyard is adorned with decades-old vines that gracefully wind around the area with its delightful fragrance.
Typically, the wisteria at the Mosque begins to bloom in mid to late April and continues for several weeks until the middle of May.
Pro Tip: If this is a consideration for your visit, check out Instagram’s recent stories on the Mosque’s location to see whether these purple flowers (known as glycines in French) are currently in full bloom.
The Library
One of the grandest and most impressive public spaces of the Mosque is its library.
This room has a beautiful wooden ceiling with lantern windows and wooden bookshelves which hold thousands of books.
If you’re into Islamic culture and literature (and you can read French literature), visit the mosque’s library. It’s a valuable place to explore.
Patios, Gardens, and Fountains
Moving further, we discovered hidden patios, smaller gardens, and additional fountains. Each corner of the mosque offers a different perspective on its beauty.
You can easily spend an hour here. We stayed longer — over two hours!
Now we’ve come to a surprising twist that made my visit more meaningful— it’s history.
A Brief History of The Great Mosque Paris
The mosque’s history is intertwined with France and two world wars.
It was officially inaugurated in 1926 and has since played a vital role in the spiritual life of Muslims in France.
Why was the Grand Mosque of Paris built?
The Great Mosque of Paris holds historical significance as a symbol of France’s enduring relationship with the Muslim world.
It was constructed in the early 1920s as an expression of gratitude for the Muslim soldiers who fought alongside France during World War I. Over 100,000 Muslim soldiers fought and died from 1914-1918 for France.
This gesture aims to honor their sacrifices and strengthen cultural ties between the two communities. You can see a plaque in the internal courtyard that commemorates these brave soldiers.
But this is not the only world war that had a great impact on the Mosque and its community of worshippers. During WW2, this mosque displayed a significant role of bravery.
What Was the Mosque of Paris During WW2?
The Grand Mosque of Paris played a remarkable role during World War II by providing refuge to Jews fleeing Nazi persecution.
Under the leadership of its rector at the time, Si Kaddour Benghabrit, the mosque issued fake certificates of Muslim identity to Jewish individuals, saving an estimated 1,732 lives.
The mosque’s underground tunnels and facilities, even the Paris Catacombs, were used to hide and protect those seeking shelter.
This courageous act of solidarity remains a profound testament to the power of compassion and humanity even in the darkest of times.
Si Kaddour Benghabrit went above and beyond to ensure the safety of the Jewish people he was assisting.
A remarkable example of this is the story of Salim Halali, a renowned singer with a Jewish heritage.
To protect Halali, Si Kaddour Benghabrit took extraordinary measures. He provided Halali with a counterfeit Muslim birth certificate, allowing him to pass as a Muslim.
Additionally, Ben Ghabrit went as far as engraving Halali’s late father’s name on an unmarked grave in a Muslim cemetery located in Bobigny.
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Our Experience Visiting The Grand Mosque in Paris
We wanted to see lesser-known spots in Paris, so we decided to visit the Grand Mosque in Paris.
And we’re glad we did. Walking into this Paris Mosque was such a calming experience.
After a morning wandering around the busy streets of Paris, the mosque offered a sanctuary. It’s centrally located near the city’s famous attractions yet it’s unbelievably peaceful inside.
If you’re looking for a mosque in Paris near Eiffel Tower, I highly recommend this one. Or even if you’re just looking for a place to relax and quiet down.
The mosque’s staff also welcomed us warmly.
The stunning architecture, reminiscent of Moorish and Hispano styles, evoked a feeling of being transported to Morocco.
The abundant greenery within the mosque’s complex was refreshing, and we couldn’t help but appreciate the attention to detail in every corner.
We thought we would just see the place for a few minutes but we actually decided to stay for hours!
We took our time checking each room and sat in the garden just in awe of how quiet and peaceful this place is! We even thought of staying for the scheduled prayer times!
Where is the Grand Mosque of Paris located?
Address: 2bis Pl. du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris, France
Mosquée de Paris is located in the 5th arrondissement (Latin Quarter) just across the Jardin des Plantes.
How to Get to the Grand Mosque?
The Grand Mosque of Paris is easily accessible. Depending on where you’re coming from, you can take a walk or take the metro.
If you prefer using the metro, take Line 7 and get off at the Place Monge station, from there take a 4-minute walk to the mosque. Alternatively, bus lines 67 and 89 have also stops nearby.
We walked from Rue Crémieux, where we were staying. It was a bit of a walk, but we enjoyed the sights along the way.
I also recommend stopping by the rooftop of the Institut du Monde Arabe, one of the secret spots for seeing panoramic views of Paris for free.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
The Grand Mosque of Paris is a peaceful retreat throughout the year, but I recommend visiting during the morning hours for a smaller crowd.
Spring and early summer provide pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the mosque’s beautiful gardens.
If you’re in late April to mid-May, check out the full bloom of wisteria flowers.
Dress Code for The Grand Mosque of Paris
Dress modestly. For both men and women, make sure that your knees, shoulders, and cleavage are covered.
If you’re visiting during the summer and it’s just too warm to wear long clothes, consider bringing your own scarf to cover up upon entering the mosque.
If you are not dressed appropriately, the staff at the entrance will give you clothes to cover your legs or shoulders. Don’t forget to return it at the end of your visit.
What to Do in The Grand Mosque of Paris
The Grand Mosque in Paris offers a range of activities for visitors but let’s not forget that this is a place of faith.
Enjoying its peaceful atmosphere is one of the best things to do here. Make sure as well to respect the place and its worshippers.
Witness Regular Prayer and Religious Services
Visiting a mosque offers a unique opportunity to witness regular Islamic prayer and religious services.
As you step into the mosque, you’ll likely encounter worshippers engaged in their daily rituals.
Witness the peaceful ambiance within the prayer hall and remember to observe these spiritual activities respectfully.
Take a Pause Yourself
Amidst the vibrant energy of Paris, the Grande Mosque Paris allows you to take a pause.
Whether you’re tired from your jam-packed itinerary or simply seeking a moment of calm, this place provides the perfect setting for reflection.
Sit by the fountain, close your eyes, and let the tranquility wash over you. It’s a precious opportunity to disconnect from the outside world.
This makes your visit to this Mosque in Paris an even more fulfilling experience.
Admire the Architecture of the Grande Mosque Paris
Stroll around the Mosque and be in awe of how beautiful its architecture is.
From the tunning prayer hall with its remarkable wooden ceiling to the walls adorned with intricate tilework and inscriptions, you’ll be amazed at how gorgeous every room is.
I also loved the tall minaret and of course the central garden with a fountain.
The harmonious blend of Moorish and Andalusian architectural influences makes this mosque a true masterpiece.
So, take your time to appreciate the intricate details and serene beauty of this Mosque in Paris, a remarkable symbol of cultural and architectural harmony.
Join a Guided Grand Mosque of Paris Tour
Guided tours are said to available by request. However, we didn’t see any information about it and we wanted to have some relaxing visit so we visited it on our own.
If you want to book a guided tour, I recommend this one that includes other hidden gems in Paris.
Try the Mint Tea at Restaurant La Mosquée de Paris
Located at the back of the Grand Mosque of Paris, Restaurant La Mosquée de Paris is a delightful culinary gem.
This restaurant offers authentic Moroccan cuisine in a traditional Moorish setting.
As you enter the restaurant, you immediately smell the aroma of fragrant spices and the warm ambiance that transports you to Morocco.
Enjoy dishes like fragrant couscous, flavorful tagines, succulent kebabs, and a variety of delectable pastries.
Don’t forget to try their famous mint tea, which is both refreshing and a perfect end to your meal.
Experience Turkish Bath at Hammam de la Mosquée de Paris
If you’re looking for a unique rejuvenating experience, visit the Hammam de la Mosquée de Paris and experience a Turkish bath.
If you’ve watched Emily in Paris, this is where they had their bath with Camille’s friends.
Indulge in a series of cleansing rituals, including steam baths, exfoliation with black soap, and a vigorous body scrub.
The skilled attendants will ensure your comfort and relaxation throughout the process.
After your hammam session, you can unwind in the relaxation room with some traditional mint tea.
Remember to bring your swimsuit and flip-flops, as they’re essential for your hammam experience.
The Hammam de la Mosquée de Paris offers sessions throughout the day, so you can easily fit it into your schedule. Note as well that it is open to men only on Tuesday and Sunday, and women only on other days.
What Other Things to Do near The Grand Mosque of Paris
After visiting the Paris Grand Mosque, here are the additional attractions worth exploring.
Jardin des Plantes
Located just a short 3-minute walk away, the Jardin des Plantes is a delightful botanical garden that offers another tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the City of Love.
Take a leisurely stroll through its exquisitely designed gardens, where you can explore a wide variety of plant species and marvel at their beauty.
Rue Crémieux
After the Grand Mosque of Paris, take a leisurely walk to Rue Crémieux, another charming hidden gem in Paris.
This colorful, cobblestone street is a photographer’s dream, with its pastel-hued houses that transport you to an English village.
Strolling down this unique lane is like stepping into another world (this time to a colorful world in London), and you’ll find that it’s often far less crowded than some of the more famous Parisian streets.
Enjoy capturing the vibrant facades, potted plants, and unique atmosphere. It’s just around a 23-minute walk from the mosque, making it a convenient stop for some post-mosque exploration.
Read Next: A Complete Guide and My Experience Visiting Rue Crémieux
Rue Cler
Rue Cler is a delightful, market-lined street known for its authentic Parisian charm. After your mosque visit, head here to immerse yourself in local life. Y
You can wander through the colorful stalls, and pick up some fresh produce, artisan cheese, and pastries.
This is an excellent spot for foodies to savor some French delicacies or simply enjoy the best ice cream we tasted in our lives! (Literally, no exaggeration!)
Rue Cler is about a 1-hour walk (33-minute train ride) from the Grand Mosque, making it an easy and enjoyable continuation of your authentic Parisian adventure.
Picnic at Champs de Mars
For an off-the-beaten-path outdoor experience, make your way to the nearby Champs de Mars, which is a 10-minute walk after Rue Cler. This green park is an ideal spot for a relaxed picnic.
Purchase some French baguettes, cheese, and wine at Rue Cler, and find a quiet spot on the lawn to soak in the iconic view of the Eiffel Tower.
These off-the-beaten-path experiences provide a unique perspective of Paris beyond the typical tourist destinations.
Tips for Visiting Paris Grand Mosque
When visiting the Grand Mosque, here are the additional reminders to make your visit pleasant for you and the worshippers:
Dress modestly and respectfully. If you need a cover-up, get one at the entrance. Respect the place and the people who do their spiritual activities here.
Be quiet. This a place of worship. Be mindful of prayer times, as certain areas may be restricted during these periods.
Take your time to appreciate the Mosque’s beauty. Appreciate the mosque’s beautiful architecture, rich history, and peaceful ambiance.
FAQs:
How many mosques are in Paris?
Paris is home to over 75 mosques throughout the city. The famous mosques include the Grand Mosque of Paris, and Adda’wa Mosque, and the Mosquée Myrha.
Can I pray at the Grand Mosque Paris?
Yes, you can pray at the Grand Mosque of Paris if you are a worshipper. The mosque offers all five daily prayers, including the Friday Jumu’ah prayer.
However, visitors are not allowed inside the prayer rooms.
You can check current and updated prayer times here.
Why is the Grand Mosque of Paris important?
The Grand Mosque of Paris is significant for its historical, cultural, and religious contributions.
It was built in 1926 to honor Muslim soldiers who fought for France in World War I and it served as refuge to Jews fleeing Nazi persecution during WW2.
It has beautiful Hispanic-Moorish (Mudéjar style) architecture with intricate mosaics and serene gardens.
Today, it serves as a community hub that promotes multiculturalism and interfaith dialogue in France.
Is The Grand Mosque of Paris Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Among all the iconic places in Paris, this hidden gem is one of the places I’ve enjoyed most. It’s a real escape from Paris’ busy streets and tourist spots.
It’s where you can witness stunning architecture, relax in a beautiful garden, and even observe Islamic prayer. It’s experiencing Paris in a different light.
The Grand Mosque of Paris is more than just a place of worship — it’s a symbol of cultural richness, historical bravery, and a serene oasis in the heart of Paris.
Have you visited this hidden oasis or plan to do so in the future? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
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I had no idea Muslims fought with France during the war! The mosque looks beautiful
Yes, I was also inspired by its brave history. Yes, it’s really beautiful.
It looks beautiful, but the history is remarkable. I knew about the important and brave role Muslim soldiers played during the war but had no idea about the mosque’s connection – and that it was further used to help save lives during WW2. Thanks for sharing.
I agree. The history of the mosque made me appreciate it more. It’s a very remarkable place of bravery and community.
What stunning architecture! That Wisteria blooming along the building is just gorgeous!
It’s breathtaking! We did not see the wisteria blooms and it’s another reason to come back again in April or May.
Never knew about this place, but it looks lovely. Love your pictures in the garden 🙂
Most people who visit Paris don’t either. It’s one of the gems I’m glad I was able to experience in Paris and I’m happy to share it.
Thank you for sharing! I didn’t know about the history behind the mosque — it looks like a beautiful place to visit!
It’s really beautiful- both the history and the place itself.
This is fascinating! It’s really cool to hear that it was built as a memorial/thank you to the Muslim WWI soldiers and amazing that they managed to help so many Jews during WWII. I absolutely love the artwork and wisteria – they go so beautifully together.
You are so good at finding interesting and fabulous places in Paris!
This was such an interesting read! I loved reading about the history behind the mosque – it looks like a gorgeous place to visit. Thanks for sharing your recommendations!
Wow, what a breathtaking building – the patterns and architecture are just beautiful, and it’s lovely to read about its history. The gardens also look gorgeous and peaceful, thanks for sharing something a little different to see in Paris, I would never have thought to visit something like this!
Wow this place looks beautiful! This definitely makes me put it on my itinerary now 🙂
It is! You will love this place if you’re into tranquil experiences!
Fascinating read. It is a shame how a lot of places get overlooked in Paris because of all the icons it has to visit. I’m going to search it out next time I’m in Paris.
Thanks, Sharyn! The Grand Mosque turned out to be my favorite spot in Paris! I always try to mix both famous spots and off-the-beaten-path places during my first visit. In my next visits, it’s mostly off-the-beaten-path. Iconic places are iconic for a reason – they are really beautiful, but I prefer slow and peaceful visits, so I’m usually on the lookout for these gems!
Very interesting! The mosque looks modern, but I guess the design is classic. I have been to the Institute du Monde Arabe(also interesting architecture, also in the 5th) and I am sorry I missed this!
Yes, it’s modern and classic at the same time. Something to add to your list for your next visit, then? I’ll also check out the Institut du Monde Arabe on my next visit to Paris!
What a beautiful place! I had no idea about the history from WW2, thank you for sharing. I’m adding this to my list of places to see next time I’m in Paris.
Me neither. But when I learn about its history it made my visit more meaningful!
What a stunning, tranquil looking mosque brimming with interesting history nestled in Paris! Definitely somewhere I’d want to visit when I go!
It is really peaceful and beautiful inside. It’s my favorite spot in Paris!
Wow, I had no idea that it was built as a gift. Would love to visit
Wow, the architecture is stunning! I have been to Paris, but did not know about this mosque during my trip. It’s definitely somewhere I would want to visit on a future trip.