Muslims of Almere: New Exhibition and Web App Launched
On 10 October 2026, the Public Library of Almere hosted the opening of “Muslims of Almere”, an exhibition celebrating the stories and experiences of the city’s Muslim community, alongside the launch of a new web app. Developed as part of the MIRETAGE project, this initiative brings together personal stories and photographs to explore the diversity of Muslim life in Almere and make minority religious heritage more visible and accessible.
Bringing Muslim heritage to life in Almere
For more than a year, the MIRETAGE team has been working with Muslim communities in Almere, the youngest city in the Netherlands, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The collaboration began with a series of workshops, or “Heritage Labs”, held at the House of Peace (Casa de la Paz). Together, participants mapped meaningful places across the city and explored the memories and personal stories connected to them.
Thirteen personal stories, many perspectives
This year, the team recorded thirteen stories from people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Among them are the founder of a mosque, the owner of a childcare centre, a baker, a cemetery administrator and a nature lover who enjoys spending time in a local park.
Together, their stories offer a glimpse into Muslim life in Almere. At the same time, they acknowledge that no single project can capture the full richness and diversity of the city's Muslim population, which includes many different communities and people with roots around the world.
From personal stories to a public exhibition
Accompanied by photographs, these personal stories can now be explored through the “Muslims of Almere” web app. They are also on display at the Public Library of Almere, where the exhibition will remain open until 15 November 2026.
By bringing these stories into a public space, the initiative invites visitors to discover experiences they might not otherwise encounter and to reflect on the role of minority religious heritage in the city's shared history.
