Sao Paulo’s mosque re-opened after major renovation

The site of Sao Paulo’s famous Bras Mosque — the city’s only Shia mosque — was originally bought by Iran 30 years ago and the mosque opened in 1997. But growing numbers of worshippers meant that by 2013 it was in need of an upgrading that has cost around 620 thousand dollars.

After two years of work, Bras Mosque has improved access to its services, a better and environmentally-friendly lighting, and an easier access for disabled users. Now it’s once again ready to serve the community.

Key members of the local Islamic community were invited to attend the inauguration and ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome in a new era at the Bras Mosque.

Islamic institutions here estimate there are between 1.5 and 2 million Muslims in Brazil today. The number of Brazilians converting to Islam has also increased in recent times.

Now Brás Mosque – São Paulo’s main place to worship for Muslims – has undergone extensive renovations, its leaders hope it will provide the local community with an inspiring and attractive place of worship.