Rebuilt from the ashes of a turbulent past, what secrets does this modern mosque hold? The Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee stands before us. It is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith and community. This mosque is in Berlin-Kreuzberg.
The Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee was built by the Islamic Association for Charitable Projects. It opened in 2010. The mosque sits at the intersection of Wiener Straße and Skalitzer Straße. It is near the Görlitzer Bahnhof U-Bahn station.
This house of worship is named after Omar ibn al-Khattab. He was an early Islamic caliph. He was known for his strict legal measures.
Construction began in June 2004. The project cost about ten million euros. The Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee features a small dome. Four minarets stand about seven meters high on the roof’s edge. Each is topped with a gilded crescent. The prayer hall has a two-story gallery. It can accommodate over 1000 worshipers.
The Maschari Center houses the Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee. It has seven floors with event halls for celebrations. There is also a Koran school. Boutiques, cafés and a supermarket are located here too.
The Islamic Association for Charitable Projects belongs to the Association of Islamic Charitable Projects. The Maschari Center is the German headquarters for this Islamic group from Lebanon. It is also known as al-Habash.
The Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee replaced a supermarket. The Bolle supermarket was burned down in 1987. This happened during the Kreuzberg May riots. The site remained unused for years.
In early 2004, the Islamic Association applied for a building permit. Construction was completed in 2008. The mosque blends into Berlin’s architectural style. The group says they funded the construction through loans and local donations. The Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee opened on May 21, 2010.
Architects Günther Barnstedt and Muhammed Miri designed the exterior. It harmonizes with the surroundings. Yet it signals its religious purpose. Four minarets, domes and arches mark it as a mosque.
The facade matches the height of nearby buildings. The dome and minarets rise slightly higher. The facade resembles the U Görlitzer Bahnhof commuter rail station. This design welcomes worshipers and visitors. The Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee encourages people of all faiths to visit.
Inside the Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee, you’ll find modern architecture. Traditional Islamic marble carvings adorn the interior. A glass dome sits above the prayer hall.
The Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee is more than a place of worship. It is a community center. It offers educational programs and commercial spaces. This blend reflects Berlin-Kreuzberg’s diverse character. It also embodies a spirit of openness.
As we leave the Omar-Ibn-Al-Khattab-Moschee, consider its story. It is a story of resilience and rebirth. From the ruins of the past, a beacon of faith arose. This beacon continues to shine in the heart of Berlin.