Islam is a religion of peace and promotes living together as it is compatible with other religions and even with atheists.

Paris, France (Indonesia Window) - Practicing islam in Paris and France in General is difficult because praying five times a day at work is not possible, but there are always ways to practice the religion as Allah (God) Will facilitate it for the adepts.

Dr. Khaled Larbi, a prominent imam at the Paris’ Grand Mosque, told a visiting journalist of Indonesia Window, Bambang Purwanto, about the mosque, here on Thursday (June 25).

Dr. Khaled made the remarks during an interview with the journalist who is exploring Paris, France, on June 19-28, 2026.

According to him, Islam is a religion of peace and promotes living together as it is compatible with other religions and even with atheists.

The imam explained that the number of Muslims in France is about five to six millions of which 500 thoudands in Paris.

Dr. Khaled who is also a univerity professor pointed out that the Grand Mosque of Paris remains the main reference for Muslims in France, even if there are mosques in most cities.

He said that the mosque also makes regular studies on Islam and publishes the study results on the official website, news stories and sometimes publications.

The mosque wich has a bureau of 160 imams is managed under the status of association in French law, Société des habous et lieux saints de l’islam, he added.

The mosque was started to be established in 1922 and was completely built in 1926, he noted, adding that it is the most ancient mosque in France.

With the style inspired from Andalous and Maghreb, the mosque has several patios and gardens as well as a minaret of 33 meters high.

The mosque is mainly financed currently by Algeria. Another small part is from donators from France and other countries.

Following the interview, the prominent imam of the Grand Mosque presented a holy book of the Quran to the journalist as a gift.

The story was written as part of the feature articles of the journalist who is now exploring Paris, France.

Reporting by Indonesia Window