A scandal has erupted in Germany over the inclusion of Islamic prayer times on road signs

For the first time in German history, authorities in the Bavarian city of Penzberg have posted a schedule of Muslim prayer times on official municipal road signs at the entrance to the city. The move sparked public controversy: residents voiced their objections on social media, and a few days later, the mosque symbol on the sign was painted over with black paint.

The decision to include the times for Friday Islamic prayers—separated into winter and summer schedules—was made by the city’s mayor after consulting with leaders of the Islamic community. Imam Benjamin Idriz supported the initiative, calling it an important signal of recognition of equality and religious diversity in modern German society.

However, the authorities’ initiative did not find widespread support among the population. According to a survey by the polling agency Idea, in which 2,000 respondents participated, 58% of citizens opposed the inclusion of religious symbols in road infrastructure, while only 22% supported the decision. The most conservative stance was taken by non-believers, as well as Protestants and Catholics. Notably, approval of this measure was recorded only among young people under the age of 29.