Regensburg Considers Buying Former Kaufhof to Block Islamic Cultural Center Plans

City officials evaluate preemptive purchase rights as proposed Islamic center in historic area faces strong opposition.

A group of investors plans to convert the former Galeria Kaufhof building in Regensburg into an Islamic cultural and shopping center, sparking significant local resistance.
Mayor Gertrud Maltz-Schwarzfischer announced that the city is reviewing its legal right to preemptively purchase the property to influence its future use.
Critics, including opposition parties and local groups, argue the proposed center does not align with Regensburg's historic preservation goals for the Altstadt area.
A petition opposing the project has gathered 29,000 signatures, citing concerns over cultural compatibility and the preservation of the city's heritage.
The investor group, with ties to Israel and the UAE, envisions the center as a space blending cultural exchange, retail, and community activities, but city approval is required for any change in use.