Lyon's Grand Mosque (Mosquée de Lyon) is France’s sixth Grand Mosque. It was built in the 1990s and combines traditional elements with modern architecture.

History of Mosquée de Lyon

The first stone of the Lyon mosque was laid on the June 14, 1992, amid some controversy. Some had worried that a minaret in Lyon would challenge the basilica at Fourvière.

The mosque designed by Lyon architects and was funded by King Fahd of Saudi Arabia and by other Muslim countries. Opened in September 1994, the mosque responded to its critics with a mix of discretion and western modernity.

What to See at Mosquée de Lyon

The exterior of the mosque features a façade with Persian arches, a 25-meter-high minaret and a white dome topped with the crescent symbol. The entrance patio is covered by a glass pyramid supported by 230 columns.

A mezzanine level was fitted in the prayer room for the women, which overhangs the mihrab that indicates the direction of Mecca. The mihrab is decorated with a blue mosaic that proclaims the central creed of Islam: "There is no other God than God and Mohammed is his prophet."

The mosque has an information center and regular guided tours are given by the Lyon Visitors Bureau.

Quick Facts on Mosquée de Lyon

Site Information
Names:	Lyon Mosque · Mosquée de Lyon
Country:	France
Categories:	mosques
Styles:	modern
Visitor and Contact Information
Coordinates:	45.736897° N, 4.890375° E
Address:	Lyon, France
Lodging:	View hotels near Mosquée de Lyon

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

More Information

• Photos of Mosquée de Lyon - here on Sacred Destinations