Great Mosque of Rome: visiting Europe's largest mosque

Updated on October 5, 2026

The Great Mosque of Rome (Moschea di Roma), in the Parioli district, is the city's main Muslim place of worship and one of the largest in Western Europe. Opened in 1995, it was designed by the architects Paolo Portoghesi, Vittorio Gigliotti and Sami Mousawi, with a large domed prayer hall surrounded by many columns evoking a palm grove. The neighbouring Islamic centre also has a library and conference rooms. Tourist visits are free but supervised: you must book in advance.

Highlights

The architectural complex

Seen from the esplanade, the complex combines volumes inspired by tradition with contemporary lines. It stands out on the hillside, with its minaret and the long façade of the cultural centre.

The dome and the crescent

The top of the dome, crowned with a crescent, is visible from afar; inside, the prayer hall is very large and bright, with many slender columns.

The guided visit

According to public information, visits take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9:00 to 11:30, by compulsory booking by email or fax (06 8079515); they are suspended during Ramadan, Muslim and Italian holidays and in August. Confirm these times before you go: they may change.

The Islamic cultural centre

Next to the mosque, the centre runs cultural activities; they are not part of the visit.

Practical info

Tips

Modest dress is required: no shorts, miniskirts, or bare shoulders or midriffs. Women must cover their hair, so bring a scarf. You take your shoes off to enter the prayer hall: bring socks. It is an active place of worship: keep quiet, no food, and photos according to the guide's instructions. See also our guide to what to wear in Rome.

How to get there

Address: viale della Moschea 85, north of the Villa Ada park. There is no metro station nearby: use ATAC buses or a taxi from the centre, and check the route on a transport app. For a neighbouring district, read our guide to Flaminio and Parioli.