Tensions over a planned new mosque in Germany boiled over as pro- and anti-immigrant protestors clashed in Cologne. Right-wing groups arrived in the city for an anti-Islamic congress, demanding the mosque project be stopped. Leftists denounced them as neo-Nazi, and rallied to protest.

The proposed mosque is expected to cost around 25 million euros, and would replace the current smaller building. But some local people and German right-wingers oppose its construction, saying Cologne is a Christian city. Muslims make up around 12 percent of Cologne’s population, and critics say the mosque would increase the perceived Islamization of Germany.

Copyright © 2012 euronews