King Charles praised Europe’s first eco-mosque after visiting the award-winning Cambridge Central Mosque, describing it as “a remarkable example of integrated faith activity”.

The King said he was impressed by the mosque’s architecture and the role it plays in both the Muslim community and the wider city of Cambridge.

Before entering the main prayer hall, Charles removed his shoes and met the mosque’s imams, worshippers and other local dignitaries.

He was shown around the 1,000-capacity mosque, designed by Marks Barfield Architects, and learned about its pioneering environmental features, including solar panels,  airsource heat pumps, natural ventilation, water recycling from bathroom sinks and rainfall, and the use of timber from sustainably-managed forests.

The building doesn’t need air conditioning and uses skylights to provide natural light throughout the year.

The King was presented with a book about the mosque before addressing those gathered. “I’m so impressed by the quality of the design, of all the care and attention which has been lavished on it,” he siad.

The fact that you have a purpose-built mosque here, with a community centre attached, 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.”

Abdal Hakim Murad, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: “For the thriving and diverse Muslim community in Cambridge, The King’s visit represented a heartening affirmation of our mosque’s commitment to Muslim integration into modern Britain, and to strengthening fraternal ties between religions.”