Hassan II Mosquee Travel Guide

The Hassan II Mosquee, located in the heart of Libreville, Gabon, is more than just a place of worship; it's a symbol of the enduring friendship between Gabon and Morocco. Its construction, which began in 1978 and concluded with its inauguration on February 11, 1983, was initiated to represent the strong ties between the two nations. The mosque is situated in a prominent location, directly opposite the Presidential Palace, highlighting its importance within the city.Named in honor of Hassan II, the former King of Morocco, the mosque was inaugurated in the presence of Gabon's then-President, Omar Bongo, and Moulay El Hassan ben Al Mehdi, a representative of the Moroccan King. Omar Bongo, who converted to Islam in 1973, became a devoted attendee of the mosque, regularly participating in Friday prayers and Eid celebrations.The Hassan II Mosquee covers an area of approximately 1.5 hectares. Its towering minaret reaches a height of 40 meters. The prayer hall, designed in an Arab-Muslim style, can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers and spans 3,500 square meters. The mosque also includes a dedicated space for women and a hall for ablutions. Moroccan artisans contributed to its decoration, incorporating traditional elements such as wooden plasters (zellij beldi) and colorful mosaics.The mosque continues to foster strong connections with Morocco. During the 2023 earthquake in Morocco, the Hassan II Mosquee dedicated its Friday prayers to the victims. In March 2024, Morocco donated copies of the Quran to the mosque during commemorations of King Mohammed V.While the interior is often reserved for Muslims, visitors can admire its beauty from the outside and explore the surrounding area.