By Editor Drealomalicha Emmanuella
Pope Leo on Monday paid a historic visit to the Great Mosque of Algiers, one of Africa’s most prominent Islamic landmarks, as part of his ongoing 11-day pastoral tour of the continent.
In a gesture of deep respect, the pontiff removed his shoes before stepping into the vast complex, which is home to the tallest minaret in the world. The moment, simple yet symbolic, underscored his message of humility and interfaith understanding.
Inside the mosque, the Pope paused for a period of silent meditation, reflecting the shared spiritual heritage between Christianity and Islam. He was received by the mosque’s rector, Mohamed Mamoun al Qasim, who welcomed him with words of fraternity.
Responding, Pope Leo expressed gratitude for the warm reception, describing the mosque as “a divine and sacred space” where people gather in search of God’s presence.
Drawing on his personal spiritual roots, the Pope spoke of Augustine of Hippo, referring to Algeria as “the land of my spiritual father”. He used the moment to highlight themes of truth, human dignity, and the collective responsibility to foster peace.
“To seek God,” he said, “also means recognising the image of God in every man and woman,” stressing that such recognition should inspire mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Beyond its religious significance, the Pope also acknowledged the mosque’s intellectual role, noting that the pursuit of knowledge is essential in deepening humanity’s understanding of creation and the dignity of the human person.
He concluded his visit with prayers for Algeria and the wider world, expressing hope that peace, justice, reconciliation and forgiveness would flourish among nations.
As part of the ceremony, Pope Leo signed the mosque’s Book of Honour, writing a message of goodwill: that the mercy of the Most High would sustain the Algerian people and the global community in peace and freedom.
The Great Mosque of Algiers, also known locally as Djamaa El Djazair, is the third-largest mosque in the world, with capacity for up to 120,000 worshippers. Its towering minaret rises to 267 metres, while its grand prayer hall is crowned by a striking dome that blends traditional Arab artistry with modern design.
The complex extends beyond worship, incorporating libraries, museums, research centres and gardens, making it both a spiritual sanctuary and a cultural hub.
Earlier in the day, the Pope was received at Algiers International Airport by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. He later visited the Maqam Echahid, a national monument honouring those who died during Algeria’s war of independence.
Religious leaders have described the visit as a powerful step towards strengthening ties between Christian and Muslim communities. Peter Claver Kogh noted that it offers an opportunity to deepen mutual understanding and promote a culture of peace and tolerance.
Algeria is the only Muslim-majority nation on the Pope’s current African itinerary, which also includes Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea. The journey, spanning more than 18,000 kilometres, reflects his commitment to dialogue, unity and what he has repeatedly described as “living together in harmony”.
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