When visiting San José, Costa Rica, you can explore the Omar Mosque and Islamic Center of Costa Rica, known locally in Spanish as the Mezquita de Omar y el Centro Cultural Musulmán de Costa Rica. This notable site stands as an important place of worship and learning within the city. The story behind its construction began in the early 1990s when a Palestinian migrant, along with fourteen other individuals, gathered at his home and made the collective decision to build a dedicated mosque.
To fund their ambitious project, members of this founding group traveled to Panama to ask the local Islamic community there for financial support. Thanks to their shared efforts, the mosque was finally built and completed in 2002. During your visit, you will find an on-site library that features a collection of Islamic texts available in both Arabic and Spanish.
The center also plays a vital educational role by holding regular classes on Islamic education for the local community. Visiting this center offers you a fascinating look into community history and education in Costa Rica's vibrant capital.
What to see at Omar Mosque and Islamic Center of Costa Rica
- Completed in 2002 after originating from early 1990s community plans
- Founded by a Palestinian migrant and a group of 14 local individuals
- Built with financial support gathered from the Islamic community in Panama
- Features an on-site library with Islamic texts in Arabic and Spanish
- Hosts Islamic education classes for the local San José community
Visiting tips
Check local community schedules in advance if you wish to learn about ongoing educational classes or browse the bilingual library collection.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Omar Mosque and Islamic Center of Costa Rica is easy to reach on San José’s public transport, and pairs naturally with National Theatre of Costa Rica and Museum of Jade and Pre-Columbian Culture. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our San José travel guide.
See the full San José travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.