Geneva Mosque

The Geneva Mosque (Mosquée de Genève) in Geneva is the city's largest mosque, standing in the Petit-Saconnex district north of the centre. Completed in the late 1970s, it is one of the most recognisable Muslim landmarks in Switzerland and the heart of an Islamic cultural centre.

How did a mosque come to Geneva?

The mosque opened in 1978. It was funded by the Saudi-based Muslim World League and is run by the Fondation culturelle islamique de Genève. Some sources say King Khalid of Saudi Arabia and Swiss Federal President Willi Ritschard took part in the inauguration. In 2020 the League announced it would stop funding and operating the site, with management to pass to Swiss Muslims, and the leadership has changed since.

What will you see?

The main space is an octagonal prayer hall under a dome, with room for roughly 1,500 worshippers. Next to it, a square courtyard building houses the cultural centre. A single minaret, about 22 metres tall, rises above the complex. The grounds cover close to 3,000 square metres and also include a Koranic school and older service buildings.

Can visitors go inside?

This is first of all a place of worship, so access depends on prayer times and the management's approval. Guided visits led by the imam have been offered in the past. Dress modestly, and women should cover their hair. Check current entry rules and prayer times with the foundation before you go, as they change.

Planning your visit

The mosque sits in Petit-Saconnex, close to the district of international organisations, and public transport from the centre takes around a quarter of an hour. Beware of naming confusion: local tourism listings also show a "Mosquée de Genève-Nations" at another address, so confirm the location on a map first. The neighbourhood suits a short walk, including the Petit-Saconnex cemetery.

Frequently asked questions

Which is the largest mosque in Geneva?

The Petit-Saconnex mosque, known as the Geneva Mosque, with a hall for about 1,500 people.

When was it built and who paid for it?

It was completed in 1978 with funds from the Muslim World League. Since 2020 management has been moving to local Muslims.

Can tourists enter?

Yes, by arrangement with the management and outside prayer times. Modest dress is required, and women cover their hair.

How tall is the minaret?

About 22 metres, the only minaret of the complex.