The Grande Mosquée de Paris and its oriental garden

If you're passing through the 5th arrondissement, you can of course take advantage of the coolness offered by the many trees of the Jardin des Plantes, but why not take advantage of your Left Bank escapade to discover the Grande Mosquée de Paris?

The desire to build the Grande Mosquée took shape after the First World War. At the time, the French government wanted to pay tribute to the 100,000 Muslim servicemen who had died for France. Work began in 1922 and lasted until July 15, 1926, when the Grande Mosquée de Paris was inaugurated in the presence of President Gaston Doumergue and the Moroccan Sultan Moulay Youssef.

The Grande Mosquée holds a special place in the hearts of French Muslims, as it is the oldest mosque in mainland France. In Hispano-Moorish style, inspired by the el-Qaraouiyyîn mosque in Fès, the mosque is dominated by an impressive 33-metre-high minaret.

Its large doorway is decorated with floral motifs typical ofIslamic art. Step inside and you'll discover traditional decoration and beautiful mosaics, the work of North African craftsmen.

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During your visit, take a tour of the mosque's beautiful gardens, similar to those of the Alhambra in Granada, and of the patio surrounded byfinely sculpted arcades. And don't forget to visit the prayer hall, with its authentic decor and magnificent carpets.

Finally, the Grande Mosquée de Paris offers plenty of space for relaxation, with its library, women-only hammam, store selling traditional objects, traditional restaurant Aux Portes de l'Orient, and tea room where you can enjoy loukoum and other oriental sweets while sipping mint tea. Teas and pastries are, of course, available on a takeaway basis for the moment.

The Grande Mosquée de Paris is open to visitors every day except Fridays and Muslim holidays. It's sure to be a nice change of scenery!