Images of a new ‘multi-faith area’ at Bristol Airport have gone viral – for the wrong reason.

The airport tweeted on Thursday to say: “This week, we have opened a new multi-faith area in the free waiting zone. Located just off the Silver Zone roundabout, the new area provides customers with a private space to reflect and pray whilst waiting to collect friends, family or loved ones. “

Among people posting on X/Twitter were those who asked whether they were looking at a parody account. Others said the structure looked more like a bus stop, while a few shared an image of the construction alongside some of the world’s most recognisable faith buildings, such as Notre Dame in Paris, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

Travel agent David Gregg posted on Travel Gossip’s Facebook page to say: “Make sure you tell your clients to add extra time if flying from Bristol, for sure they will want to take in Silver Zone’s very own Sagrada Familia.”

The airport later tweeted: “Please note the new multi-faith area was created after we consulted widely, listened to feedback and to provide shelter and dignity prior to the winter.

“We also have a multi-faith area in the Departure Lounge of the terminal situated between the Central Walkway and Gates 32-34.”