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Heritage

Traditional Moroccan craftsmanship adorns Europe's largest mosque in Rome

Tuesday 01 - 14:36 By: Zahouani Ilham

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The interior of the Great Mosque in Rome is dominated by traditional Moroccan decorative arts, including intricate tilework (zellij), plaster, copper, and carved wood. This artistic infusion provides the mosque with a unique aesthetic, transporting visitors to the heart of Morocco's rich heritage, reminiscent of the ancient mosques and madrassas in the spiritual capital of Morocco, Fez.

This is the signature touch of Moroccan artisans, whose work has graced many artistic masterpieces across the globe, from Africa to Europe, Asia to the Americas, and throughout the Arab world. This time, however, it’s Europe’s largest mosque, situated in the heart of Rome, the "Eternal City," which has long been a hub for art, architecture, and civilization.

Abdallah Ridouane, the General Secretary of the Islamic Cultural Center in Italy, which oversees the management of the mosque, noted that the decision to feature Moroccan craftsmanship was not accidental. The mosque’s design seamlessly blends Islamic traditions with Italian aesthetics.

He added, "While Italian architects designed the building, the Moroccan artisans were entrusted with the task of crafting the artistic decorations—such as the zellij tiles, plaster carvings, mashrabiya screens, and copper chandeliers—thanks to their exceptional craftsmanship and genuine artistic expertise."

Ridouane highlighted that every section of the mosque, from the prayer hall to the library and meeting rooms, bears the authentic Moroccan mark.

"My favorite space is the fountain, which reminds me of the famous Najjarine Fountain in the old city of Fez," he recalled, reminiscing about the opening day of the Rome Mosque.

With nostalgia in his voice, Ridouane shared, "I still remember the moments when I laid down the Rabat carpets to welcome guests, served traditional sweets, mint tea, and the finest Moroccan dishes."

The Great Mosque of Rome, opened in 1995, serves as a symbol of coexistence and harmony. It is a vital space for the Muslim community in Italy, where prayers are performed, and religious and festive events are celebrated.

Additionally, Ridouane mentioned that the mosque houses the headquarters of the Islamic Cultural Center in Italy, which includes a library, an Arabic language school, a conference center, and a prayer hall that accommodates over 12,000 worshipers.

Spanning nearly 30,000 square meters, the mosque features a minaret over 40 meters tall, topped with silver crescents, and is surrounded by expansive green spaces. It was constructed using exclusively Italian materials, including travertine stone and light pink bricks.