Andalucia gets its name from Al-Andalus, the name for the Iberian Peninsula when it was under Muslim rule. The area is heavily influenced by its Moorish history, culture and architecture – even to this day.
The Moors ruled this area for nearly 800 years – from 711 CE, until 1492 when Granada fell to the Reconquest of the Catholic King and Queen. Given this long history of rule and influence, it’s no wonder that there is still such a strong connection between Marbella and the Islamic World.
You will see marks of Moorish culture in the architecture, society and even Spanish language, once you start to look. In fact, they estimate that 4,000 Spanish words have Arabic origins – 8% of the Spanish language.
It has long been popular with visitors from Arab countries and Marbella has benefitted from a long-standing connection with the Saudi Royal Family. King Fahd started visiting Marbella with his family in the 1970s and came every summer and the current king still visits most years. Find out more about Marbella’s history and culture.
One of the most imposing monuments to this connection and history is the King Abdul Aziz Al Saud Mosque, also known as the Marbella Mosque, on the Golden Mile. This was is a significant Islamic place of worship and is one of the first mosques built in modern Spain, completed after the Christian reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula.
This is a sacred space for Muslims, but also welcomes visitors of other faiths outside of prayer times and its stunning architecture is well worth going to see.
Where is the King Abdul Aziz Al Saud Mosque?
The mosque is located in Marbella, on a hill overlooking Marbella’s “Golden Mile”, just off the coastal road. It’s very close to the Puente Romano hotel, on the opposite side, approximately 4 kilometers from the city center.
You can find the mosque at – Urbanización Lomas Marbella-S, 18, 29602 Marbella, Málaga. Find it on Google Maps
King Abdul Aziz Al Saud Mosque: History
King Fahd had the idea for the mosque when he built his spectacular Mar Mar Palace, which he modelled on the White House. This included a private mosque, but the King thought the area should have its own public mosque and the construction was financed by the government of Saudi Arabia.
It was commissioned by Prince Salman in honor of King Fahd, who was a frequent visitor to Marbella and named after the first monarch of Saudi Arabia, King Abdulaziz Al Saud.
The mosque was completed and inaugurated in 1981. It is a testament to the close relationship between Marbella and the Saudi Royal Family. Along with the Fuengirola Mosque and the Malaga Mosque, it is part of the Salafi school of thought, which is dominant in Saudi Arabia.
The mosque is an important symbol of the enduring presence of Islamic culture in Spain and a testament to the juxtaposition of cultures in the region.
Architecture and construction of the mosque
The mosque was designed by the Córdoban architect Juan Mora. Its architecture is described as an example of contemporary Arabic architecture with a strong Andalusian influence and the building can accommodate over 800 worshippers.
Outside you can see the minaret topped by a crescent moon and a 12-meter central dome. The 24 stained glass windows create a magnificent lighting effect into the simple, but beautiful interior. A 500kg bronze chandelier with 130 lamps hangs from the ceiling. The mosque has separate areas for men and women, housing for the imam and a library. The building is surrounded by beautiful gardens that are meant to invite spiritual reflection and tranquility.
On TripAdvisor it was described as “a Majestic Fusion of Faith and Beauty!” The visitor goes on to say “The Marbella Grand Mosque, isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a breathtaking fusion of Andalusian and Islamic architecture that offers a unique and inspiring experience for all visitors.”
Visitors love the peace and tranquility, architectural splendor and friendly staff who are ready to answer questions.
Center for Islamic Studies
The King Abdul Aziz Mosque is an active and peaceful place of worship for the local Muslim community. It is also a center for Islamic studies, thanks to its extensive library which holds over thirty thousand volumes on Islam, Arab-Andalusian literature, history, and civilization. Anyone interested in the history or culture, or studying this can access the library, making it a really important resource for education and understanding.
As the visitor from TripAdvisor explained, this is more than just a mosque. “Beyond its religious significance, the Marbella Grand Mosque offers a glimpse into Islamic culture and history. The informative panels and friendly staff readily answer questions and share insights into the faith and its traditions. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding. Whether you’re a Muslim seeking a place of prayer or a curious traveler, the Marbella Grand Mosque welcomes you with open arms. The inclusive atmosphere ensures a comfortable experience for all visitors, regardless of faith or background.”
He goes on to say – “The Marbella Grand Mosque is a must-visit for anyone seeking a beautiful, peaceful, and culturally enriching experience in Marbella. It’s a testament to the power of interfaith dialogue and the beauty of architectural fusion. I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary!”
Marbella’s Warm Welcome to All
No matter your faith or nationality, you will receive a warm welcome if you holiday in Marbella.
Marbella and the municipalities of the Costa del Sol are a melting pot of cultures, with 153 nationalities calling it home and thousands of tourists from around the world visiting annually. According to data from the INE (National Institute of Statistics), Marbella has a foreign population of more than 159,000; almost 30% of the population residing in Marbella comes from outside Spain. Notable countries of origin include the United Kingdom, Morocco, Ukraine, Colombia, and Russia.
The multicultural nature of the area, plus the open and relaxed approach to newcomers makes it a fantastic place to holiday, or to call home. We love it!
The King Abdul Aziz Al Saud Mosque in Marbella is a great example of the way the area has adapted to welcome different nationalities, faiths and cultures. You’ll also find specialist food shops so visitors can get a taste of home, halal and international restaurants showcasing the food and culture from their home countries, and businesses speaking a range of languages to support tourists and residents from all over the world.
