Iftar in Eiffel Tower

Orginal Video Uploaded by AlArabiya on Aug 29, 2011


France's most famed symbol, The Eiffel Tower, was transformed into a site embracing Ramadan at an event organized by French Maghreb youth and to which our reporter in Paris, Saad Al Massoudi, was invited. He provided us with this report.

The Eiffel Tower was built by Gustav Eiffel, a 122 years ago and remains one of the most visited sites in the world. It was the scene of an iftar hosted by "Anwar" association, a group that wants to bring together Muslims living in France and French society. They also wanted to introduce the Ramadan spirit to non-Muslim visitors of Paris.

Abdullah Al Manyaoui, president of "Anwar Al Maghreb" association: "We consider Paris, the city of enchantment, a global center. And through this initiative we are trying to send a message to the world that each and every one of us to promote brotherhood and coexistence."


The French police refused to give the permit to organize this unprecedented event where Muslims in Paris Muslims would gather for their Ramadan meal under the Eiffel Tower. The police wanted to prevent journalists from covering this Iftar but the organizers were determined to hold the event because French law does not prohibit eating in public places.

Muslims and Christians believe the choice of the venue is significant as it aims to bring Muslims and other communities living in Paris closer.

Nicolas, a Frenchman was invited to the Iftar. He says: "This has been a great opportunity to celebrate with our Muslim brothers. This event sends a message of peace for those who don't know about Ramadan and Islam. The food is delicious and we are distributing it to everybody."

Julien Claire who is also French participated at the Iftar: "I am not Muslim but I found that holding a Ramadan meal near the Eiffel Tower is a great initiative for spreading the message of brotherhood. My family and I are very happy and thank you for the invite."

The variety and diversity of Ramadan dishes helped spread the aroma of the Orient and the Arab Maghreb around the Eiffel Tower. People mingled while sipping their tea and savored their sweets late into the night near the gardens of "Champs de Mars", promising to meet again next year.

By:Saad Al Masoudi
Al Arabiya

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