Ramadan across borders
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With a burgeoning Muslim population in Europe, individuals across the continent are becoming more accustomed to Islamic practices. For most, the holy month of Ramadan is usually associated with fasting. But for those who practice the religious festival it means much more.
Ramadan is observed by over one billion Muslims around the world.
Many of the thousands of families who have relocated to non-Muslim countries in Europe like France, the UK or Germany, continue to practise the ancient faith by sustaining its unique rituals.
During the holy month, some Muslims abstain from eating, drink, smoking and sex from sunrise to sunset.
It's a month marked by family gatherings, sharing food and sympathizing with the less fortunate.
The Islamic Hijri lunar calendar means Ramadan migrates through the seasons each year. In 2010, it falls in the European summer.
Some European Muslims decide to go back to their native countries to celebrate the holiday.
Many Muslim cities and towns come to life after sunset, with shops closed during the Iftar - or Ramadan evening meal - there's barely a soul on the streets.
The growing visibility of Ramadan is presenting opportunities to discover more about the religion in Europe.
One example of this is in the Netherlands, where the local Ramadan Festival provides opportunities for non-Muslims to attend lectures, workshops and join local families at the dinner table for the much-anticipated Iftar.
