BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | October 21st, 2024 — In a significant diplomatic engagement, Mohamed Ali Nafti, the Tunisian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad, visited Djamaâ El Djazaïr on Sunday. The rector, Mohamed Maâmoun Al Kacimi Al Hassani, warmly welcomed the minister, underscoring the deep-rooted fraternal ties and historical connections between Algeria and Tunisia, both of which are bound by a shared cultural and religious heritage.
During the meeting, the rector emphasized the importance of scientific collaboration between the two nations, particularly highlighting the role of the illustrious Zitouna Mosque in fostering intellectual exchanges. He declared, “Djamaâ El Djazaïr serves as an impregnable bastion of our collective religious identity, embodying the spirit of unity that binds our Maghreb peoples together.” The rector reiterated the institution’s mission, stating that Djamaâ El Djazaïr is committed to being a solid foundation for the common religious reference, a principle that resonates deeply within both nations.
Highlighting the civilizational mission of Djamaâ El Djazaïr, Al Kacimi Al Hassani noted that the religious edifice is designed to unite all components of Algerian society. He remarked, “Djamaâ El Djazaïr, with its diverse structures and specializations, stands as a beacon of hope and collaboration for future generations.”
In a reciprocal gesture, Minister Nafti expressed his admiration for Algeria’s monumental achievement in establishing such a significant religious institution. He commended the Algerian government and its people for their efforts, emphasizing the vital role Djamaâ El Djazaïr plays in safeguarding the cultural and spiritual values for generations to come.
The visit not only reflects the enduring friendship between Algeria and Tunisia but also highlights a collective commitment to strengthening their shared heritage and fostering a collaborative approach to religious, cultural, and scientific endeavors in the region.
Djamaâ El Djazaïr: A Modern Bastion of Religious and Cultural Integrity
Djamaâ El Djazaïr, located in the heart of Algiers within the Mohammadia commune, stands as a prominent symbol of religious and cultural significance. Renowned for its modernist interpretation of Islamic architecture, the mosque serves not only as the largest in Africa but also as the third largest globally, following Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Masjid al-Nabawi in Medina.
Architecturally, Djamaâ El Djazaïr represents a fusion of modernist design with traditional Andalusian influences. Its structure features intricate geometric patterns and elaborate decorations crafted from wood, marble, and alabaster. The mosque’s interior is adorned with six kilometers of Koranic text rendered in Arabic calligraphy, complemented by turquoise prayer mats that enhance the spiritual ambiance.
Spanning 27.75 hectares, the mosque’s prayer hall is expansive, covering over 2 hectares and accommodating up to 120,000 worshipers. This vast hall, shaped like a massive cube approximately 145 meters on each side and standing 22.5 meters high, integrates religious elements such as the Qibla wall, Mihrab, and Minbar within a contemporary aesthetic framework.
The mosque’s minaret is a standout feature, recognized as the tallest in the world at 265 meters. Equipped with elevators, it provides sweeping views of Algiers and the Bay of Algiers, resembling a skyscraper in its scope. The minaret houses several public amenities, including the Museum of Algerian History, two research centers, and a public viewing platform at its pinnacle.
Beyond its architectural grandeur, the mosque complex encompasses a range of cultural and educational facilities. These include a Quranic house, an Islamic cultural center, a library, a museum of Islamic art and history, research centers, and an Imam School. These amenities underscore the mosque’s role as a hub for religious, social, and cultural engagement.
The mosque also features an expansive outdoor plaza, administrative offices, underground parking for 6,000 vehicles, green spaces, and retail outlets distributed across 12 independent buildings. Notably, it is equipped with a sophisticated anti-seismic system designed to absorb over 70% of earthquake forces, ensuring structural resilience.
In essence, Djamaâ El Djazaïr epitomizes modern Islam, blending educational, cultural, and social functions with a steadfast commitment to combating extremism and fostering religious tolerance. Its design and facilities reflect Algeria’s dedication to advancing both spiritual and intellectual growth within a framework of modernity and resilience.
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