Designed by the Greek team of VMP Architects, their proposal for the Central Mosque of Prishtina is noticed from afar. The emblematic minaret stands 70 meters above the ground pointing out the spot of the site, inviting visitors to the mosque. Mosque’s circular shape was chosen since circle commonly represents unity and wholeness. Furthermore, circle is considered to be a symbol of completion and perfection. It is a symbolic expression of an inviting place for people to come together, to unite, for such an importantpurpose. On the other hand, the circular shape was fitted nicely on the site enhancing the circulation and access to the rest of the facilities of the building.

Concrete beams embrace the main circular volume offering shade towards the entrances of the mosque. Fragments of light penetrate the shell through small openings, along with the Mihrab’s vertical slim opening, creating an imposing atmosphere. The twin domes hovering 25 meters above the ground, meet in the center of the praying area representing the coexistence of male and female prayers under the same space. Both these domes have their own big skylight filtering light from above contributing to the creation of a mystique feeling.

The monumental volume of the mosque is faced with local breccia marble of white color laid on a triangular grid, reflecting elements of the Muslim architecture. The material chosen to “enclose” the sacred space of the praying areas is a very elegant, fine material. On the other hand, the volume of circulation that leads to the three mahfil levels is made of corten steel, a more modest material that witnesses metaphorically but also literally, through its corrosion, our temporary – passing nature. Purposely this layer of steel is made in a more perforated manner, allowing the moving shadows of the arriving prayers to be seen “as they climb towards the skies” from the exterior of the mosque. This orchestrated promenade is willing to represent the passage from the world of reality, of today to the world of eternity.