Muslim Communities in Barcelona

Barcelona has one of the largest and most diverse Muslim populations in Spain, with approximately 322,000 Muslims in the province as of 2014 (likely higher now due to immigration trends). The community is predominantly Sunni, with significant North African (Moroccan, Algerian), Pakistani, Senegalese, and Syrian influences, alongside smaller Shia and Sufi groups. Many communities operate from adapted spaces like basements or cultural centers rather than grand mosques, due to historical and urban constraints—Barcelona's Islamic presence dates back to the 1960s with Arab students, evolving into formal associations in the 1970s. Key hubs include the Raval neighborhood (Ciutat Vella) and Sant Andreu district. The Union of Islamic Communities of Catalonia (UCIDCAT) serves as an umbrella organization promoting dialogue and rights.Below is a table of major Muslim communities and prayer centers (mosques or Islamic centers) in Barcelona, based on current listings. These focus on worship, cultural activities, education, and integration. Note: There are over 50 prayer spaces citywide, but I've highlighted prominent ones with available details.

Name	Description	Location	Key Details
Barcelona Islamic Centre	Leading historic center founded in 1974 by Syrian students; first officially recognized Muslim prayer space in Catalonia. Hosts Friday prayers, cultural events, and interfaith activities; self-funded by donations.	Sant Andreu district (Carrer Sant Adrià, 20)	Open to all Muslims; engages with non-Muslim neighbors; celebrated 50th anniversary in 2023 with city events on cohesion.
Mezquita Tariq Bin Ziyad (Masjid Tarek Ibn Ziyad)	Largest mosque in Barcelona, accommodating thousands; named after the Muslim conqueror Tariq ibn Ziyad. Focuses on community worship and halal services.	Raval neighborhood (Ciutat Vella, Carrer Hospital, 28)	Central location; popular for visitors; offers prayer halls for men and women.
Centre Islàmic del Raval de Barcelona	Community-focused center in the heart of the Muslim district; emphasizes newcomer integration and social support.	Raval (Ciutat Vella, near Carrer del Carme)	Welcoming to immigrants; hosts halal events and language classes.
Centre Cultural Islàmic Català	Cultural and religious hub promoting Catalan-Muslim integration; offers education, youth programs, and interfaith dialogue.	Central Barcelona (exact address via contact)	Known for welcoming atmosphere; active in anti-racism initiatives.
Minhaj al-Qur’ân	Pakistani-led organization with two centers; focuses on Quranic education, women's empowerment, and cultural preservation. Founded in 1997 to address language barriers.	Ciutat Vella (Carrer l’Arc del Teatre and Carrer d’Erasme de Janer)	Interfaith partnerships; youth mobilization; second-generation leadership.
Al-Hudâ Mosque – Association of African Muslims of Barcelona	Serves West African (e.g., Senegalese) community; part of the Coordinator for Senegalese Associations of Catalonia (CASC). Emphasizes women's roles in mediation and education.	La Trinitat Vella, Sant Andreu district	Charitable activities; intercultural bridge-building.
Imambargah Al Qaim	Shia center for the Pakistani and South Asian community; hosts majlis (gatherings) and matami (mourning) events for Karbala commemorations.	Sant Pere Mitjà, 21 Bis, 08003 Barcelona	Instagram-active; focuses on spiritual reflection and family events.
Karam Ilâhî Islamic Centre	General Sunni center with prayer and community services; involved in city prayer routes and diversity events.	Central Barcelona (visited in municipal tours)	Supports dialogue; open for public visits.
Nou Barris Islamic Community	Neighborhood-based group in a diverse district; offers worship, family support, and anti-discrimination workshops.	Nou Barris district	Youth empowerment; part of broader Catalan Muslim federation.
Mosque Abi Ayoub Elansari	Smaller prayer space for daily salat; community-oriented with halal facilities nearby.	Barcelona (specifics via HalalTrip)	Rated for accessibility; near Raval eateries.

These communities often collaborate through federations like the Islamic Federation of Catalonia or the Catalan Federation of Pakistani Organisations. Challenges include space shortages, identity issues for youth, and occasional tensions (e.g., hijab debates), but many promote cohesion via city programs. For halal-friendly spots, Raval is ideal with numerous eateries and shops.