Here stands the Mesquita Central de Lisboa. It is Lisbon’s main mosque. The Mesquita Central de Lisboa serves the city’s Muslim community.
Let’s delve into the story of this significant religious site. Its construction reflects a fascinating period in Portugal’s history. The Mesquita Central de Lisboa’s journey began long before its physical structure took shape.
In 1966, a request to build the center was submitted. However, permission wasn’t granted until 1978. This delay occurred amidst the 1973 oil crisis. Arab oil-producing nations gained economic and political power during this time.
Finally, in 1979 construction started. The Mesquita Central de Lisboa was designed by architects António Maria Braga and João Paulo Conceição. António Maria Braga later won the Rafael Manzano Prize in 2019. The Mesquita Central de Lisboa officially opened in 1985.
The increase of Muslims in Portugal after 1974 was the result of Portuguese decolonization. Also, the civil war in former Portuguese colonies played a role. Many came from Portuguese-speaking African countries. In 1979, the government gave part of the Palácio do Príncipe Real to the Islamic community for prayers.
Suleiman Valy Mamede, president of the Islamic Community of Lisbon, largely led the effort to build a dedicated space. Contributions from Islamic countries helped build the Mesquita Central de Lisboa. Saudi Arabia donated one million dollars. Kuwait, Libya, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman also contributed.
The Mesquita Central de Lisboa stands as a testament to post-modern architecture. The external design includes four minarets and two domes. Inside, you will find reception halls. There is also a prayer hall and an auditorium. The Central Mosque established a council. This council offers financial support to local Muslims.
Since 1995, the mosque has hosted an Islamic Book Fair every year. Al Furqan publishing house promotes the fair. Sheikh David Munir is the current Imam of the Mesquita Central de Lisboa.
The Mesquita Central de Lisboa plays a vital role. It serves as a center for Lisbon’s Islamic community. In 2001, Lisbon’s City Council named the street in front of the mosque Rua da Mesquita. This name still stands today. The Mesquita Central de Lisboa continues to be a place of worship and community for Muslims in Lisbon.