Amsterdam’s Turkish Fatih Mosque joins ‘Netherlands’ Largest Museum’ project

Fatih Mosque, affiliated with the Dutch Religious Foundation (HDV), has become one of the most visited places in Amsterdam by joining the “Netherlands’ Largest Museum” project. This initiative offers visitors the chance to learn about both Islam and Türkiye’s religious and cultural heritage.

Launched by the Catharijneconvent National Museum, the project aims to increase visits to places of worship across the country. Fatih Mosque in Amsterdam stands out as one of the most notable structures in the project due to its transformation from a church to a mosque. The project, which features places of worship from various religions, enhances the cultural and artistic recognition of mosques while also providing many Dutch people with information about Islam.

Opportunity to introduce Islam

Kemal Gozutok, the religious official of Fatih Mosque, stated that participating in this project has had positive outcomes. The mosque continues its religious services as before but now has the opportunity to reach a wider audience through the project. Gozutok emphasized that the mosque is now visited by more foreigners and non-Muslims, providing a valuable opportunity to introduce Islam.

“Through this project, we have the chance to introduce Islam to Dutch people and non-Muslims,” said Gozutok, noting that the mosque’s central location in the city contributes to this opportunity.

First-time visitors to Fatih Mosque

Tolunay Somuncu from the mosque administration mentioned that visitors are showing great interest and that the number of people visiting the mosque for the first time is quite high. Somuncu noted that materials about the mosque in Dutch, English, Arabic, and Turkish help visitors develop a positive perspective on Islam and Muslims.

Dutch citizen Jaap Kapteyn highlighted the importance of projects like this for fostering communication between Dutch residents and the mosque. Kapteyn said, “Visitors and those who get to know the mosque now feel a sense of ownership. I hope this will positively influence the Dutch perception of Islam and Muslims, allowing them to get to know Islam in a pleasant way.”

Transformation of the historic building

Fikret Onder, President of the Fatih Mosque Association, explained that the mosque was originally built as a church in 1927 and served as such until 1971. Due to a lack of congregation, the building was used as a commercial property and warehouse. In 1981, it was purchased by the community, led by Ibrahim Gormez and others, and was converted into a mosque in 1982.

“Our mosque is considered a historical artifact,” said Onder, adding that they have taken all necessary measures to preserve the building, which underwent a major restoration in 2010.

This special project in Amsterdam not only enhances the mosque’s role as a religious and cultural center but also represents a significant step in introducing Islam to a broader audience.