Why language matters

Abstract This study examines whether purpose-built mosques in Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen are embedded within their local contexts or whether they rather display ties to transnational Islamic networks. To address this question, we draw on an exploratory theoretical framework that integrates territorialization theory, the field of semiotic landscapes, and critical toponymy and conceptualizes mosques as assemblages. The study demonstrates that analyzing toponyms, language use and language choices (both offline and online), religious transparency, and the presence and visibility of women in the semiotic landscape in addition to mosque architecture and visibility offers valuable insight into territorialization processes. Our aim is to evaluate the applicability of the proposed model, to deepen our understanding of purpose-built mosques in Scandinavia, and ultimately to provide a more comprehensive perspective on the role of language in territorialization processes.