Latin America’s Mosques: Cultural & Architectural Harmony

Although people of the Islamic faith account for only 0.1 percent of the population in Latin America, the region is home to beautiful mosques and Islamic centers that serve as spaces for worship. In addition to their role as sacred houses of worship, these mosques showcase the region’s rich culture through their intricate art and architecture. These mosques highlight the area’s beautiful and varied Islamic art and architecture, from detailed tile work to soaring minarets.

During Ramadan, many of these mosques come alive with colorful decorations and spirited celebrations, making them must-see destinations for anyone interested in witnessing the unique blend of Islamic and Latin American cultures. If your travels take you to Latin America, consider visiting one of these mosques and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere during Ramadan, a truly special time for Muslims worldwide.

Mezquita Suraya, Mexico

Completed in 1989, Mezquita Suraya in Torreón, Coahuila, was Mexico’s first purpose-built mosque. Its design reflects a harmonious blend of Islamic and Hispanic architectural traditions, representing the fusion of cultures in the region.

Mosque of Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Ibrahim, Venezuela

Also known as the Caracas Mosque, this Venezuelan mosque, perched on a hilltop, is the largest in Latin America. Constructed in 1993, it offers stunning views of Caracas and the surrounding area. Its majestic architecture and breathtaking aesthetics never fail to inspire awe in visitors. The mosque’s minaret, over 300 feet tall, announces calls to prayer, while its 75-foot-tall dome, an element found in most mosques, represents the vault of heaven. The mosque can accommodate an estimated 3,500 people at once for prayers.

Mesquita Brasil, Brazil

In São Paulo, Mesquita Brasil is a beautiful mosque uniquely blending Ottoman and modern architectural styles. The mosque’s interior showcases ornate chandeliers and intricate tile work seamlessly melds classic Syrian and Moroccan styles. The spacious prayer hall can accommodate up to 1,500 people for worship services. It’s distinctive minaret and modernist architecture create a visually striking exterior, while the beautiful calligraphy and intricate traditional Middle Eastern tile work inside captivate visitors.

King Fahd Islamic Cultural Center, Argentina

Named after the former King and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, this cultural center and mosque are the largest in Latin America. Situated in Buenos Aires’s Palermo neighborhood, it was established in 1995 after the Argentine government granted over 300,000 square feet of public land for its construction. The mosque also houses a library with over 3,000 books about Islam and Arabic culture and a cultural center where the local Muslim community can hold classes and events. The building was based on the Great Mosque of Cordoba in Spain, combining traditional Islamic architecture with modern features.

The Mosque of Omar Ibn Al-Khattab, Colombia

This mosque is Latin America’s third-largest sacred site in La Guajira, Colombia. Referred to as “La Mezquita” by the local community, it is a stunning example of the fusion between Islamic and Latin American cultures. It’s an intricate design and unique features make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the region’s rich history and diverse religious architecture.

The Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque, Brazil

Situated near the mesmerizing Iguazu Falls in Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, Brazil, the Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque (Mesquita Foz Do Iguacu)