Algeria has officially inaugurated the Grand Mosque of Algiers, now recognized as the world’s third-largest mosque and the largest in Africa.
The ceremony was led by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on Monday, just in time for the holy month of Ramadan.
Algeria opens Africa’s largest mosque
Known locally as Djamaa El-Djazair, the mosque features the world’s tallest minaret, standing at an impressive 265 meters (869 feet). With the capacity to accommodate 120,000 worshippers, it ranks as the world’s third-largest mosque, following Islam’s holiest sites in Mecca and Medina.
Constructed over seven years, the modernist structure spans 27.75 hectares (almost 70 acres), adorned with wood and marble elements, incorporating Arab and North African architectural styles. The mosque is equipped with a helicopter landing pad and a library capable of housing up to one million books.
While the mosque officially opens to host public prayers and events during Ramadan, it has been accessible to international tourists and state visitors for approximately five years. It first opened for prayers in October 2020, although President Tebboune could not attend at that time due to COVID-19.
Despite the ceremonial inauguration, the mosque’s completion faced challenges due to political unrest, leading to delays and cost overruns. Critics have labeled it a vanity project for former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, who initially planned to inaugurate it in February 2019. However, the delays persisted, and Bouteflika, who named the mosque after himself, was forced to resign in 2019 after two decades in power.
The Grand Mosque of Algiers stands as a testament to Algeria’s architectural prowess, with its inauguration marking a significant moment for the country and its recognition on the global stage.
As Algeria celebrates the completion of its monumental mosque, the nation looks forward to the positive impact it will have on its cultural and religious landscape.
