Historically, opposition to the construction of a mosque in Rome dates back to Benito Mussolini, who is said to have once declared that a mosque would never be built in Rome unless a Catholic church was also built in Mecca.
However, historical records indicate that Mussolini had, in fact, once agreed to build a mosque in cooperation with King Victor Emmanuel III, though church opposition ultimately halted the project.
Following the public announcement of the mosque’s construction, there was initial resistance from the general population.
Nevertheless, much of this opposition subsided after Pope John Paul II publicly endorsed the project.
One of the most debated issues during the planning phase was the height of the mosque's minaret and its potential impact on Rome’s skyline.
The dispute was eventually resolved by lowering the height of the minaret to ensure it remained just below the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, with a difference of approximately one meter (3.3 feet).
The mosque’s architectural design was crafted to harmonize with the surrounding greenery, combining modern structural elements with dominant arch motifs.
The interplay of light and shadow was deliberately designed to evoke a meditative atmosphere, while the use of materials such as travertino and cotto reflected traditional Roman architectural styles.
The interior decor features brightly glazed ceramic tiles and recurring Qur’anic themes, most notably: “Allah is Light”—a motif that initially sparked some controversy.
The mosque’s interior is adorned with mosaics that create optical effects, and the floor is covered with Persian carpets featuring geometric patterns.
The main prayer hall can hold up to 2,500 worshippers, with an upper balcony reserved for female congregants.
A large central dome with a diameter of over 20 meters (66 feet) crowns the main prayer hall, surrounded by 16 smaller domes.
The mosque complex also includes an educational area with classrooms and a library, a conference center with a large auditorium, and an exhibition space.
The result is an architectural masterpiece defined by geometric patterns and repetitive designs, where light plays a key role in creating a contemplative atmosphere and a range of visual effects.
Notably, the mosque features several columns shaped like open palms, symbolizing the direct relationship between God and His servants.
