This morning I had an appointment in the 13th arrondissement and on the way out I passed by the Grande Mosquée de Paris (the big Mosque of Paris), that I already showed you here. The place was absolutely packed, because of Aïd el-Fitr, which celebrated the end of Ramadan. Everybody was all dressed up and looked happy; it was really fun to see. Islam is the second religion in France, after Catholicism. It's also the fastest growing one, mainly due to immigration from Africa and to conversions (even though it's difficult to know for sure as the French Republic prohibits the performing of census based on religion, ethnic origins - or skin color). Also, France being a strict secular state, it is not always easy for all religions to find a space...
I saw it was the end of Ramadan from the blogs I read : "Taste of Beirut" and "Paris Alep cuisine syrienne"... I don't know much about religion and their holidays but when it comes to food... I am always eager to learn!
ReplyDeleteLOL!
DeleteSuch wonderful detail work. Good photo!
ReplyDeleteYes, it's a nice place.
DeleteBeautiful building.
ReplyDeleteYes, worth the visit.
DeleteEric,
ReplyDeleteThe best way to appreciate and learn about the month of Ramadan and Eid is to get invited either to Iftar ( when the fast is broken at dusk) or on any day ( three days ) of the celebration. Whether it is from a ME household or an Asian one, you will love the food :-)
I'm sure I would, BUT... due to my gall bladder stones (that I still need to have removed!) any excess of food and any fat is strictly forbidden. Next year then... ;-)
DeleteAlors, combien de kilos t'as perdu avec ces sacré pierres?
DeleteIt's a beautiful building! A good friend who's Muslim told me his whole family gets up at 4 a.m. during Ramadan and eats a big, filling meal just before sunup so they can get through all those hours of fasting (but he's hungry by 11 a.m.). I admire their devotion.
ReplyDeleteYeah. I too admire this devotion. And I'm glad I'm not a Muslim!
DeleteTo be honest—moi aussi!
DeleteWhat an amazing photo! The detail here is incredible. Thanks so much for this post!
ReplyDeleteThank you. I'm glad you like it for I was a bit disappointed. Initially I wanted to post one with people, but none of the ones I took were good.
Delete