First Mosque Built in Thuringia Opens - Erfurt's First Purpose-Built Mosque Opens as a Symbol of Unity in Thuringia
Thuringia’s first purpose-built mosque has opened its doors in Erfurt. The Mahmud Mosque, constructed by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, marks a historic moment for the region. On Sunday, the public is invited to explore the site during an 'Open Mosque Day'. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, established in Erfurt since 1990, has around 100 members in Thuringia. The new mosque is the first in any of the five eastern German states to feature a dome and a small minaret. It will function as both a place of worship and a centre for dialogue, respect, and understanding.
The Ahmadiyya denomination, founded in 1889 in India, promotes peace, transparency, and social engagement. Despite its peaceful principles, the group faces persecution in several countries, particularly Pakistan. Germany is now home to roughly 60,000 Ahmadi Muslims across 250 communities. At the opening, Thuringia’s Minister-President Bodo Ramelow praised an inscription on the mosque’s wall: *'Love for all, hatred for none.'* He described it as one of the most magnificent messages. Erfurt’s Lord Mayor Andreas Horn also spoke, emphasising religious freedom as a crucial lesson from German history.
The Mahmud Mosque stands as a symbol of openness and community in Thuringia. Its opening reflects the Ahmadiyya Community’s commitment to dialogue and peaceful coexistence. The public can visit the mosque this Sunday to learn more about its role in the region.
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