At a visit to Cambridge Central Mosque yesterday (Monday 20 July) King Charles III unveiled a plaque celebrating 75 years of Cambridge being granted city status by his grandfather, King George VI.
The visit was organised by the Mosque as part of the year-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of Cambridge being a city, with a particular focus on the city’s inclusivity and community.
After greeting attendees, the King said: “I’m so impressed by the quality of the design, of all the care and attention which has been lavished on [the Mosque], and the fact you have a purpose-built mosque here with the community centre attached.
“It makes a huge contribution, I’m sure, not only to the Muslim community but to Cambridge itself.
“So I congratulate you, and I pray with all my heart that you continue with every possible success and that you continue your work together with other faiths in this area to set a remarkable example of integrated faith activity.”
At the event the King and other guests – including Cambridge City Council staff and councillors – had the opportunity to view some of the historic royal charters of Cambridge, which have recently been restored by local conservator Edward Cheese in time for the 75th anniversary.
The royal charters are precious documents that reflect the developing relationship across the centuries between Cambridge and the Crown under a succession of monarchs. The oldest dates all the way back to the 13th Century reign of King John, who first granted Cambridge the right to have its own Mayor.
Speaking on behalf of the council prior to the plaque being unveiled, Cambridge Mayor, Maria Cleminson, said: “It is particularly fitting that we gather today at Cambridge Central Mosque, a place that reflects both the diversity of our modern city and the values of community, stewardship and mutual understanding. As one of Europe's leading eco-mosques, it also demonstrates Cambridge's commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.
“Today, as we unveil this plaque, we celebrate not only our past, but also the future of a city that continues to thrive through learning, service and the contributions of people from every background who make Cambridge their home.”
