New Mosque Design in Montenegro Celebrated for Cultural Relevance

The recently awarded Ranko Radovic Award for 2025 highlights the significance of the Hadrovica Mosque project, not only as an architectural achievement but also as a testament to the potential of contemporary architecture to resonate with historical context. Located at a prominent intersection in Podgorica, in the neighborhood of Drac, the new mosque replaces an Ottoman-era structure that existed until the mid-20th century. The design of the mosque does not attempt to merely reconstruct what was lost but instead offers a thoughtful reinterpretation of its essence.

The expert jury recognized the project’s ability to sensitively address historical injustices, urban context, and the modern needs of the community. Awarded to the ARHING Engineering studio, led by architect Rifat Alihodzic, the mosque is celebrated for its subtle strength and significant urban presence, standing apart from mere formalism and nostalgia.

A Thoughtful Balance of Tradition and Modernity

In an interview with local media outlet Pobjeda, Alihodzic discussed the balance his team struck between contemporary expression and the responsibility towards a historical memory that has been systematically erased. He noted that the award serves as a recognition of all important aspects of architectural work, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the cultural space that once existed in the region.

“Since its inception in 2006, this award has grown in importance,” Alihodzic remarked. “Participating architects come from across the former Yugoslavia, allowing for the comparison of ideas and reducing the sense of self-sufficiency that can arise from local isolation.”

The Hadrovica Mosque embodies a dualism between modern architectural expression and a clear grounding in its existing context. The design features a contemporary aesthetic that has been recognized as a bold step forward, a rarity among newly built religious structures. While there are no strict guidelines in Islam regarding the construction of such buildings, inherited forms and typologies significantly influence design choices.

The newly constructed mosque reflects the authentic urban core of the Drac neighborhood, characterized by dominant single-pitched roofs that accentuate street fronts. The choice of stone as the primary material is evident in the mosque’s façade, which utilizes two different modern finishes to create contrast and differentiation in form. The project respects the existing context through its scale and composition, presenting itself as a “good neighbor” welcomed by all faiths.

Addressing Urban Fragmentation

The mosque’s strategic location at the crossroads of four streets enhances its urban potential. Alihodzic explained that this site represents the “navel” of the neighborhood, serving as a common meeting point for local residents. The design of the new structure is intentionally modest, paying attention to human-scale forms and the height of the minaret, which does not exceed that of nearby buildings.

“The aim was to create a space of strong cohesive energy within the fragmented urban fabric,” he stated. “During the day, the mosque is a significant landmark, and at night, its carefully designed lighting effects further enhance its visibility.”

Given the impossibility of reconstructing the original mosque, Alihodzic and his team focused on continuity through a contemporary architectural language that respects the historical essence. The Hadrovica Mosque is designed to be a witness to current culture, building technology, and material processing methods, while adhering to the principles of orientation towards the Qibla (the direction of prayer towards the Kaaba in Mecca).

Alihodzic criticized the current state of urbanism in Montenegro, marked by haphazard construction and investor-driven projects. He expressed concerns that architects often find themselves reduced to mere executors of investors’ desires, contributing to the ongoing degradation of urban spaces.

“The state bears the greatest responsibility,” he asserted, “as it fails to take adequate measures to regain control over urban space and return it to the profession.”

As the conversation shifted towards the role of architects in the face of poor urban policies, Alihodzic reflected on the moral implications of compromising professional ethics for financial survival. He highlighted the necessity for architects to resist becoming accomplices in the destruction of their environments for monetary gain.

In conclusion, he emphasized that every architectural project should carry a responsibility towards the broader urban narrative. The Hadrovica Mosque stands as a model of how contemporary architecture can engage with sensitive contexts without simulating history or aggressively altering the landscape.

Alihodzic’s vision extends beyond mere aesthetics; it advocates for architecture as a vital participant in social dialogue, contributing to the collective identity and cultural heritage of multicultural societies. The mosque serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving history while fostering modern development, urging future generations of architects to prioritize the integrity of the spaces they inhabit.