On 18 December 1996, we witnessed a historic event - the Foundation Laying Stone of the Ismaili Centre, Lisbon.
This emblematic building represents the aspirations of the Ismaili Community in Portugal, reflecting the identity and cultural heritage of the Community, and is today a place visited by hundreds of people.
It is characterised not only as a place of prayer for the Community, but also as a meeting point for people from different social and cultural backgrounds, thus promoting the creation of bridges between various communities. A place for sharing knowledge and intellectual development, celebrating values such as pluralism.
As Mawlana Hazar Imam stated in his speech on the occasion of the Inauguration of the Ismaili Centre, Lisbon on 18 December 1996:
"It is my deep hope that this will be a Centre of goodwill, and of learning, of experience to be shared open-handedly, a place uplifting in the beauty of its design, a place for Portuguese Ismailis, of course, to meet and practice their faith, and we hope, a lasting token of our commitment to a long and fruitful relationship with Portugal."
Throughout these years, the Ismaili Centre has hosted many events and activities, from concerts, exhibitions, cultural events such as Africa Day, among others, with the presence of distinguished guests such as the current President of the Republic, Professor Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the Cardinal Patriarch D. José Policarpo and the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres.
The Ismaili Centre seeks through various initiatives such as lectures, conferences and exhibitions, not only to express the aspirations and values of the Ismaili Community but also to serve as an active agent in the development of the society where the Centre is located.
Thus, on the occasion of the celebration of its 26th anniversary, the Ismaili Centre opens its doors to all those interested in learning more about the architectural influences and aspirations that make up the building.
In addition to guided tours of the building's interior, you will also have the opportunity to:
- Take a walk around the exterior of the building and explore the Ismaili Centre gardens
- Visit the ElevArte exhibition that will be available in the Exhibition Hall
- Watch musical moments of several artists in the Multipurpose Room
- Learn more about the other Ismaili Centres around the world
Guided tours have limited availability and can be booked through this link: https://forms.gle/gkf8BJTR7kwVNP5m8
We challenge the Jamat to invite their friends and family and join us during this weekend of celebrations!
