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Grande Mosquée de Bangui: A Beacon of Faith

Discover the Grande Mosquée de Bangui, a symbol of faith, culture, and peaceful coexistence in the heart of the Central African Republic.

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The Grande Mosquée de Bangui, or The Big Mosque, stands as an architectural and cultural symbol in the heart of Bangui, Central African Republic. Its design blends Islamic tradition with local aesthetics, offering a serene space for worship and reflection. It serves as a testament to the country's Muslim heritage and the coexistence of cultures.

A brief summary to Grande Mosquée de Bangui

  • La Grande Mosquée, The Big Mosque, Av. Barthelemy, Bangui, 3rd Arrondissement, CF

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting to respect local customs and the sacred nature of the mosque.
  • Visit during prayer times to witness the vibrant community atmosphere.
  • Engage with local worshippers to gain deeper insights into the mosque's significance within the community.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Grande Mosquée de Bangui is located on Avenue Barthélémy in the 3rd Arrondissement and is accessible by foot from many points in central Bangui. From the Boganda National Museum, walk east along Avenue David Dacko, then turn right onto Avenue Barthélémy. The mosque will be on your left. Be aware of your surroundings and traffic.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation in Bangui consists of minibuses and taxis. Minibuses connect the capital with other major cities. Taxis are also readily available. From the city center, look for a minibus or taxi heading towards the Koudoukou neighborhood. Ask to be dropped off near the Grande Mosquée on Avenue Barthélémy. Be prepared for crowded conditions and negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a common way to get around Bangui. Negotiate the fare before you get in. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Grande Mosquée will likely cost between 2500 and 5500 FCFA (approximately $5 to $10 USD), depending on the distance, time of day, and traffic. Taxis do not typically have meters.

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Discover more about Grande Mosquée de Bangui

The Grande Mosquée de Bangui, located in the Koudoukou neighborhood, is one of the largest mosques in the Central African Republic. Its striking white and green stucco exterior, adorned with three minarets and gold-painted star-and-crescent symbols, makes it a prominent landmark in the city. The mosque is not only a place of worship but also a cultural hub for the local Muslim community. Inside, large fans provide cooling, and loudspeakers atop the minarets broadcast the call to prayer five times daily. During major gatherings, worshippers often spill out onto the adjacent dirt paths, arranging their prayer mats in neat rows. The mosque's architecture reflects a blend of Islamic and local styles, creating a unique and peaceful atmosphere. Islam's arrival in the Central African Republic is relatively recent compared to other parts of Africa, likely beginning in the 17th century. Today, Muslims constitute about 10% of the population. The Grande Mosquée has, at times, been a sanctuary during periods of conflict. In 2014, it provided refuge for thousands of Muslims fleeing violence. In a significant moment for interfaith relations, Pope Francis visited the Grande Mosquée in November 2015, preaching a message of peace and brotherhood, emphasizing that Christians and Muslims are brothers and sisters. This visit marked the first time a pope had visited an active war zone, highlighting the mosque's role as a symbol of peace and reconciliation.

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