Who we are?

The Islamic Community Association of Tapada das Mercês and Mem-Martins (ACITMMM) was created by people from different countries and cultures, based on the principle that a good human being should speak, think and do good to others, All good that a Person wishes for himself must wish for others, regardless of his origin, religion, ethnicity or gender. In 2007, a group of residents of Tapada das Mercês realized that there were several shortcomings in the place they lived in and many projects that they could develop together to respond to the community's wishes. They founded ACITMMM with the aim of facilitating the acquisition of skills that would improve the integration of immigrants in Portuguese society and, at the same time, to promote knowledge and appreciation of the cultures of their countries. Broadening the understanding of Islamic culture and religion, contributing to a pluralistic and peaceful society, is another specific objective of the Association. Over time, and realizing that its questions affected not only the immigrant community but all residents of Tapada das Mercês, ACITMMM extended its responses to all residents. Soon the Association will start the construction of the Islamic Community Center of Tapada das Mercês, aimed at everyone, regardless of religion and ethnic or other belonging. ACITMMM is an I.P.S.S. and an Association of Immigrants recognized by the A.C.M. In 2013 the association was distinguished with the SOLIDAR good practices award (Silver Rose Awards) given by the European Parliament.

Tapada das Mercês

Located in the Municipality of Sintra, Tapada das Mercês is a relatively recent location, where almost 20,000 people of at least 27 different nationalities reside and with a young age structure. About half of the foreigners residing in Tapada das Mercês are from PALOP countries. Others come from Brazil, Eastern Europe and, also, from African countries like Guinea Conakry and Senegal. It is also worth mentioning the importance of Portuguese residents descended from people from other countries. A significant part of the inhabitants have dual nationality. There are also many multicultural households. In addition to geographical and cultural diversity, religious diversity also characterizes Tapada das Mercês. An important part of the residents are Muslims, living side by side and peacefully with people of other religions, such as Catholics, Orthodox and Hindus. This diversity marks the day-to-day life of Tapada das Mercês, distinguishes its urban experience and is an important resource for promoting the quality of life of the place. 

The greatest difficulties experienced by immigrants living in Tapada das Mercês are the mastery of the Portuguese language, access to documentation related to citizenship and integration in the primary labor market segment (less precarious, more qualified).

The acquisition of own housing or in better conditions was one of the factors that most attracted residents to Tapada das Mercês, which grew exponentially between 1990 and 2009. Today, the locality has a rich set of endogenous organizations, which cooperate with each other and share the same objective, to serve the local population and promote sustainable development.