Amsterdam’s Fatih Mosque recently opened its doors to over 2,000 Non-Muslim visitors during the city’s popular “Museum Night,” creating a unique space for cross-cultural engagement and religious understanding. The event offered Dutch guests an opportunity to witness Islamic traditions, with a call to prayer broadcast, Quranic recitations, and hymns setting the tone.
Imam Ismail Mercimek provided visitors with basic insights into Islam, while the president of the Fatih Mosque Association, Fikret Önder, expressed hope that the experience would dispel prejudices against Islam. The event’s educational and welcoming atmosphere encouraged many Dutch visitors to ask questions directly, creating an open dialogue that addressed misconceptions about Islam.
The mosque showcased traditional Turkish and Islamic arts, including tilework, marbling, calligraphy, and filigree, allowing visitors to participate in hands-on workshops. These interactive experiences bridged cultural divides, with visitors sampling Turkish cuisine and learning about the history and significance of Islamic artistry.
Önder noted that the mosque attracted young, educated Dutch citizens who came not only to observe but also to engage in meaningful dialogue. This initiative aligns with the mosque’s mission to foster mutual understanding within Amsterdam’s multicultural setting, offering visitors insight into Islamic values and the welcoming spirit of its community.
Originally a 1920 church, the building that now houses the Fatih Mosque symbolises the resilience and adaptability of Amsterdam’s diverse communities. Converted to a mosque by Turkish workers in 1980, it serves as a space for worship and cultural outreach. Dutch visitors, like Gioia Eijook and Julia van Adrichem, praised the mosque’s architecture and warm atmosphere, describing their experience as calming and inviting. For many, the event left a lasting impression, with some expressing interest in returning, marking the night as a step toward stronger interfaith connections in Amsterdam.
