Did you catch our social media posts during the first week of Ramadan? If not, fear not-we’ve brought everything together in one place so you don’t miss out!
Over seven days, we celebrated the richness and diversity of Islamic culture by highlighting mosques and sacred spaces from around the world. Mosques are more than places of worship- they are spaces of community, welcome and belonging. For many refugees and people seeking asylum here in Scotland, they can offer comfort, connection and a sense of home during Ramadan and beyond.
Here’s a look back at our journey:
Day One – The Great Mosque of Mecca, Saudi Arabia
We began with the holiest site in Islam, Masjid al-Haram. At its heart is the Kaaba, the sacred structure towards which Muslims around the world face during daily prayers. As the largest mosque in the world, it can hold up to four million worshippers and welcomes millions each year, especially during Ramadan and Hajj. It is a powerful symbol of unity, bringing together people of all backgrounds in shared faith.
Day Two – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Next, we visited one of the world’s most breathtaking mosques. Known for its white marble, intricate floral designs and peaceful courtyards, it is not only a place of worship but also a space of learning and openness. Visitors of all faiths are welcomed, reflecting a spirit of dialogue and understanding.
Day Three – The Blue Mosque, Istanbul
Officially called the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this iconic landmark is famous for its more than 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles and its six minarets. Built in the 17th century, it sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, symbolising the blending of cultures that has shaped the city for centuries.
Day Four – The Great Mosque of Xi’an, China
One of the oldest mosques in the world, the Great Mosque of Xi’an offers something truly unique. With its pagoda-style roofs, gardens and courtyards, it reflects a blend of Islamic faith and traditional Chinese architecture. Islam has been present in China since the 7th century, carried along the Silk Road by traders and scholars.
Day Five – Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Colombo
Also known as the Red Mosque, this striking building is instantly recognisable for its bold red-and-white façade. Built in 1909 in Colombo’s historic trading district, it reflects Sri Lanka’s long history as a crossroads of cultures. For over a thousand years, Muslim communities have been part of the island’s story, contributing to its rich cultural life.
Day Six – Shah-i-Zinda, Samarkand
In Uzbekistan, we explored Shah-i-Zinda, a stunning complex of mausoleums whose name means “The Living King.” Covered in vibrant blue and turquoise tiles, it reflects the artistic and spiritual heritage of Central Asia, shaped by centuries of exchange along the Silk Road.
Day Seven – Tiban Mosque, Indonesia
We ended the week with one of the most unusual and enchanting sites. Tiban Mosque, with its multi-level towers and maze-like design, is steeped in local legend—its name means “suddenly appeared.” Indonesia is home to the largest Muslim population in the world, and this mosque reflects the diversity and creativity of Islamic culture across Southeast Asia.
Throughout the week, we celebrated not only beautiful architecture, but also the global diversity of Muslim communities. Islam is a truly worldwide faith, shaped by many cultures, histories and traditions.
At Forth Valley Welcome, we stand in solidarity with refugees and people seeking asylum who carry their beliefs, identities and stories with them as they rebuild their lives. Spaces of faith and community, whether in Scotland or across the world, play an important role in creating belonging.
