Kardeslik-Moschee

Nestled in Vienna’s vibrant 21st district of Floridsdorf, the Kardeslik-Moschee stands as a testament to community and faith. But let’s rewind to the beginning. Before the minaret pierced the skyline, the Islamic Community in Vienna acquired a sizable plot of land in 1969. Their vision? To build a mosque, a beacon for their community. Financial hurdles delayed their dream, pushing the project back repeatedly. The Kardeslik-Moschee’s story is one of resilience and international collaboration. In 1975, a generous act from across continents breathed life into the project. King Faisal bin Abdulaziz al Saud of Saudi Arabia stepped forward, pledging the necessary funds to make the Kardeslik-Moschee a reality. With financial security, the construction gears finally started turning. Richard Lugner, a prominent figure in Vienna, was chosen as the general contractor. On July 1, 1977, the foundation stone was laid, marking the physical manifestation of years of planning and anticipation. The Kardeslik-Moschee rapidly took shape. Just a little over two years later, on November 20, 1979, the Kardeslik-Moschee was officially inaugurated. Austrian President Rudolf Kirchschläger presided over the ceremony, a moment captured by local media, including a report on Zeit im Bild, underscoring the event’s significance. The Kardeslik-Moschee’s architecture is a blend of tradition and modernity. Its defining feature, the minaret, reaches a height of 32 meters, a prominent landmark in the district. The dome, a symbol of Islamic architecture, is 16 meters high and 20 meters in diameter, adding a touch of grace to the skyline. The Kardeslik-Moschee, also known as the Vienna Islamic Centre, serves as the largest mosque in Austria. It is a place of worship, a center for community gatherings, and a symbol of the growing presence of Islam in Austria.