A night of light and diversity at Windsor castle

In a historic event that will forever be etched in the annals of Windsor Castle, the emblematic residence of British royalty hosted, for the very first time in its thousand-year history, a Ramadan fast-breaking ceremony.

Photos : Windsor Castle/ 360//DR

This past Sunday, the prestigious St. George’s Hall, usually reserved for royal banquets and state events, was transformed into a space of unity and intercultural dialogue. Over 350 guests gathered, sharing a moment rich with meaning and emotion.

A sacred tradition in a majestic setting

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the Adzan an evocative call to prayer reverberated through the castle’s historic walls. Participants broke their fast in the traditional way, with dates in hand, before coming together in solemn prayer. “The atmosphere felt surreal, almost magical,” shared one guest with the BBC, encapsulating the sense of privilege felt by many.

A project that inites hearts and cultures

This unprecedented ceremony was organized by the Ramadan Tent Project, a London-based charitable organization, in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust. Simon Maples, head of visitor operations at Windsor Castle, emphasized King Charles III’s long-standing commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and celebrating diversity. “His Majesty has always championed mutual recognition across cultures and religions,” Maples noted. The royal family’s gesture of openness deeply resonated with attendees. “We traveled a long way to be here tonight,” expressed one guest, visibly moved. Another participant, a trained historian, described the experience as a perfect fusion of her Muslim identity and passion for British history: “This is an evening I never dared to imagine.”

Photos : Windsor Castle/ 360//DR

Nationwide celebration of understanding

This exceptional event is part of a broader initiative led by the Ramadan Tent Project, which aims to build bridges between cultures across the United Kingdom. Eighteen prestigious venues, including Shakespeare’s Globe and Lord’s Cricket Ground, hosted open fast-breaking ceremonies this year. The final event will take place at Trafalgar Square, bringing together individuals from all walks of life for an unforgettable shared experience.

Beacon of hope for the future

Omar Salha, the founder of the organization, hailed the evening as a triumph for unity and solidarity: “This moment embodies unwavering support for the Muslim community.” As Ramadan’s crescent moon continues to rise, guests departing Windsor Castle carry with them indelible memories, etched not only in the grandeur of the ancient stones but also in the warmth of the shared human spirit.