Portugal – Muslim Population & Islamic Communities in Portugal

Last Updated on August 17, 2021

Muslims have been associated with Portugal from a long time ago; from the year 711 until 1249, a large part of the present-day Portuguese land was subject to the rule of the Muslims, and it was called Western Andalusia.

Total population : 10.7 million
Muslim population (2016): 40,000

The Muslims had their cultural heritage, such as Islamic art, and historical monuments such as mosques. After the wars of independence, refugees and immigrants from former colonies came to Portugal, some of whom were Muslims. Currently, most Muslims live in the major urban centers, such as Lisbon, Coimbra and Faro.

The Portuguese constitution provides for freedom of religion, including freedom of worship, which may not be violated even if the government declares a state of emergency. The law prohibits business owners from
discriminating against individuals based on religion and requires appropriate accommodation of employees’ religious practices.