In a historic move ahead of Ramadan, the Yeni Mosque in Thessaloniki and the Suleymaniye Mosque in Rhodes will open their doors for Eid al-Fitr prayers on April 10, marking the first time these Ottoman monuments will be used for Muslim worship.
The decision, announced Wednesday by the General Secretariat of Religious Affairs, reflects Greece’s commitment to religious inclusivity and cultural diversity.
“The inclusion of these iconic mosques for Eid prayers is a significant step towards fostering unity and understanding among communities,” stated a representative from the General Secretariat of Religious Affairs.
In addition to these monumental mosques, Attica boasts 15 licensed mosques, with an estimated 55 to 60 unofficial prayer spaces. Thrace operates around 300 mosques, while Kos, Rhodes, Thiva, and Thessaloniki each have one. With approximately 125,000 Muslim Greeks, primarily residing in Thrace, and an estimated 250,000 Muslim refugees and migrants in Attica, the need for prayer spaces during religious celebrations is evident.
Recognizing the need for accessible prayer spaces, organizations in areas lacking formal mosques can seek approval from local municipalities to utilize closed spaces for Eid prayers on April 10.
This move underscores Greece’s commitment to upholding religious freedoms and accommodating the diverse needs of its population during significant religious observances. It also reflects a broader trend towards inclusivity and cultural integration within Greek society.
