The Noor-e-Islam Mosque, also known as Noor-al-Islam, is the main mosque of Saint-Denis de La Réunion and one of the two Sunni mosques in the city. Its name, meaning “Light of Islam” in Arabic, symbolizes the guiding principles of faith and spirituality that it represents.

The mosque traces its origins to the early 1890s when traders from Gujarat, India, primarily from Surat, initiated its construction. Having settled on the island decades earlier, these traders played a vital role in shaping the local Muslim community. Their dedication to their faith led to the mosque’s establishment, making it a cornerstone of Islamic presence in La Réunion.

For a long time, Noor-e-Islam was considered the oldest mosque in a French department. However, the Tsingoni Mosque in Mayotte, which features elements from the 14th century, now holds that distinction. Despite this, Noor-e-Islam remains a significant historical and architectural landmark, reflecting the enduring presence of Islam on the island.

Over the years, the mosque has undergone multiple modifications and expansions to accommodate the growing Muslim population. Notable developments include:

• 1959-1962: Expansion of the prayer hall and the addition of an entrance on Jules Auber Street, designed by architects Virapin and Ravily.
• 1975-1978: Construction of a shopping gallery and a minaret, overseen by architects Gustave Rey, Jean Ménagé, Philippe Goetz, and Marc van Nuwenborg.

Architecturally, the mosque features a white exterior with a classical design. A defining element is its 32-meter-high minaret, topped with a white bulb and equipped with a lightning rod, designed to withstand tropical cyclones. The entrance is located on Rue du Maréchal-Leclerc, within a gallery that houses several small shops selling toys, perfumes, and other goods, discreetly hidden behind columns.

The main prayer hall, located on the ground floor, can accommodate 500 worshippers. It is modestly decorated, with minimal Quranic inscriptions on its white walls. This simplicity reflects the Indian origins of its founders, who practiced their faith in a minority setting. The green prayer carpet features golden colonnades pointing toward Mecca. At the front, the mihrab, originally built under the guidance of a passing navigator, has undergone slight modifications over time.

Today, Noor-e-Islam Mosque remains a vital religious and cultural hub in Saint-Denis de La Réunion. Beyond serving as a place of worship, it plays a key role in community gatherings, religious education, and cultural exchange. Its enduring presence stands as a testament to the resilience and contributions of the Muslim community on the island, blending tradition, faith, and architectural beauty.