Perhaps the most striking thing about the Mosquée des Cèdres is its contemporary design. Here we are at the Mosquée des Cèdres in Marseille. This French Muslim religious building is in the Vallon de Malpassé. It stands at number 31 Rue Marathon. This is in the Quartier des Cèdres in Marseille’s 13th arrondissement.
Let’s delve into its story. The Association de la Mosquée des Cèdres was established in 1984. Originally, it was a cultural association. It served the interests of the North African Muslim community.
The Mosquée des Cèdres architecture is the work of architect Fawzi Chaoui-Boudghène. The building does not have a minaret. Instead, the facade features a moucharabieh. It is calligraphed in Arabic. This represents the call to prayer. It is a beautiful and thoughtful design element.
The Mosquée des Cèdres comprises four levels. The ground floor and first floor are for cultural activities. Here, you’ll find three classrooms. They host Arabic lessons, tutoring, and social integration programs. There is also a library. A media center is available. A large conference room opens onto an outdoor terrace and garden.
The upper levels house prayer spaces for men and women. The Mosquée des Cèdres can accommodate 1,000 people. It is equipped with an elevator. There are two ablution rooms. Access is provided for people with reduced mobility.
The new Mosquée des Cèdres construction came about because of urban renewal. The original location was a small local. It was located in the heart of the Vallon de Malpassé since 1984. The new building is close to the “Genêts” area.
The building is a large rectangular concrete structure. It has three levels above ground. There is also a roof terrace. Amar Messikh is the president of the Mosquée des Cèdres association. He proudly shows the building. He says the mosque respects certain architectural rules. It is a contemporary mosque.
The future place of worship will accommodate 800 people. A 250 square meter room will be for men’s prayers. Another level will be reserved for women. This will include a 135 square meter space. There will also be a convivial area with a kitchen.
A spectacular frontispiece reproduces the call to prayer. The land was sold to the association for 31,200 euros. The old mosque will be destroyed soon.
The construction is financed only by donations. The mosque hopes to prove that Muslims in Marseille can come out of “cellars and garages”. The mosque will be open to everyone.
The term Iqra means “read”. It was the first word revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The mosque was inaugurated in the presence of Jean-Claude Gaudin, Martine Vassal, and Michel Pezet. The Mosquée des Cèdres is more than just a building. It’s a testament to community spirit. It is a beacon of faith. The Mosquée des Cèdres contributes to the renewal of Malpassé. It is a place of worship and a center for cultural exchange.